 | What is the minimum flying experience required before I can apply? |
| The minimum requirement for a Direct Entry Pilot is 1,000 hours flying time (no synthetic time). However single engine and non-commercial flight time (e.g. training and private) is factored down. It should include at least 500 hours on heavy (greater than 15,000Kgs/33,000lbs MTOW) turboprop equipment. |
| What Flight Crew Licence do I need to hold before I can apply? |
| Your licence must meet one of these standards:
- JAA compliant ATPL or 'Frozen' ATPL.
- An ATPL issued in compliance with the requirements of ICAO Annex 1.
- A CPL issued in compliance with the requirements of ICAO Annex 1 and the holder has passed all the ATPL theory examinations.
- An FAA ATP which must include a type rating in a similar category to Gulf Air aircraft.
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| Do I need to be Type Rated on one of Gulf Air's aircraft types? |
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No, experience on our types is beneficial, however it is not required. We offer full type training subject to a three year Training Bond. To be considered Type Rated, you must have at least 500 hours flying time on type. |
| If I meet the eligibility requirements to apply, what other criteria could help me in the selection process? |
| Before you can be considered for the Direct Entry Pilot programme you must meet all the requirements outlined in the eligibility checklist posted in the vacancy (e.g. age and physical attribute requirements, licence, medical qualifications and experience). After assessing your application form, if you are successful, you will be invited to an assessment session where we will be looking for other qualities you possess, through our interviews, group discussions and psychometric tests. The following standards, although not required, are considered valuable:
- Type rated with at least 500 hours flying time on type.
- Having at least 500 hours flying time on civil type jet equipment of MTOW greater than 10,000Kgs/22,000lbs.
- Modern Glass cockpit experience.
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| What sort of contract does Gulf Air offer? |
| We are interested in recruiting Pilots who wish to make a career in Gulf Air. To this end, we offer long term contracts, designed to encourage our Pilots to develop their career with us. Most of our Pilots enjoy their jobs so much that they often stay with us for a number of years with our support and encouragement. |
| How long will I have to wait for promotion to Captain? |
| There are so many variables that can affect when you gain your command. As such, it is difficult to offer you a forecast of time to command. Depending on your performance and that you have met all provisions necessary; you can expect to remain a First Officer for five to eight years. |
| Does Gulf Air pay for Loss of Licence insurance? |
| In place of Loss of Licence insurance we offer an income protection insurance scheme protecting loss of earnings potential due to illness or injury. This benefit is fully paid for by Gulf Air and Pilots may choose to increase their coverage through voluntary contributions. |
| How long will it take to complete the Initial Type training? |
| Your training will take approximately three months to complete. During this time you will be paid your normal salary. |
| What sort of accommodation can I expect? |
| During your training period you will stay in a hotel while the company arranges permanent accommodation where you will stay upon completion of the training course. After your training period, you will be provided with furnished apartment style accommodation. Alternatively, you may choose to rent your own flat or villa where you'll be subsidised a certain amount to put towards your rental accommodation. |
| Will my spouse be able to work in Bahrain? |
| Expatriates need a company to sponsor to them in order to work and live in Bahrain. As your employer, Gulf Air will apply for a work permit and residence visa on behalf of you, your spouse and children. Generally the residence permit for your spouse will not allow them to take up employment. It may be possible, on an exceptional basis, if your spouse is qualified in a specialist field and there is not a suitably qualified Bahraini National available. The medical and educational fields may be examples of this. |