Ask Captain Lim ~ All about Aviation

Dear Sir,

I have been recommended to your website and I hope to seek your advice with regards to my career path.

I am currently working for a low cost carrier in Singapore and I have logged approximately 1200 hours on the A320. It has only been a year and a half since I started flying and I am very thankful to have acquired a reasonably amount of flight time in a relatively short period but in the end, my intention is to fly for a national carrier somewhere in the Asian region.

In light of this, I have looked through a lot of airline requirements and I am wondering if I should immediately apply as a Co-Pilot after fulfilling the minimum basic requirements and join the company seniority list or should I obtain my Command first and perhaps, log enough P1 hours before crossing over as a Captain?

I take this opportunity to thank you in advance and I look forward to your kind reply.

Many happy landings!

Best Regards,

Lee Chad

Hi Lee,

I know of a pilot (a First Officer with about 1200 hours on the A320, and a total time of around 3000 hours) who took a gamble and just joined a major airline. Whether it is a right or wrong decision would depend on many factors - location, lifestyle, pay, future prospects, etc.

I can see that there are two options in your case:

One - stay with the low cost carrier and get your Command first. You will reach your Captain status faster here. Once you are a Captain, you can then consider applying to the national carrier.

Two - apply with your current qualification to the national carrier and weight the pros and cons after you have been selected - although there is no guarantee of being hired even with your experience. No harm trying anyway. If you think airline flying is more suitable to your career plans, then go ahead, but consider the penalty of your bond and other personal issues.

Choose your best option?

I wish you all the best!