Ask Captain Lim - Why do you think I failed in my previous interview with SIA?

I am a Malaysian. After my pre-university studies, I went for an interview with SIA (Singapore Airlines) but did not make it. I then went to further my studies in Australia. I am currently studying for the Bachelor of Applied Science course, majoring in Civil Aviation in Australia. I will be completing my degree at the end of this year. I am not doing any practical flying training as I cannot afford to pay for the flying fees. I am also currently applying to get into SIA again.

Why do you think I failed in my previous interview? Many others who did not make it told me that their interviews took them about 15 minutes. I was interviewed for more than 30 minutes and still I did not get through. I have also applied to Malaysia Airlines but have not received any responses.

I am really uncertain about my future as I am not sure whether to concentrate on civil aviation management on the ground or pursue flying as a career? My real ambition is to be a pilot but I cannot have any flying lessons unless I can get a sponsorship.

What should I do now? Should I get a job over here after I graduate or should I go back home to get a job there? My friends are wondering why am I taking this course when there are not many job opportunities for me in this field.

Thank you.

Cheers,

Christopher Lim

Hi Chris,

I have also commented on a similar situation as yours in a past FAQ. SIA is quite thorough when it comes to selecting a candidate for their cadet pilot scheme. Your current Degree course majoring in Civil Aviation helps but personal character is just as important when it comes to the interview. You have to try harder the next time.

Since you cannot afford to pay for your own flying training, your only hope is to get into the cadet pilot scheme, failing which, you can try to get a ground job in Australia that is related to aviation. Save some money to do a PPL (Private Pilot License) course in Malaysia or Australia and work up from there. It would be a long process but I think that is the only route to realize your ambition.