Captain Ong Navigating through CAAS, LCC, ICAO, FAA, TG, TR, JSA, BAH, WSSS and WTF

72 Comments

1. 

   Hi, Captain!
   Your post is really informative! I’m also curious about working internationally as a pilot since I’m currently studying as an international 12th-grade student in the U.S. Can you share your experience of becoming a pilot?

2. 

   Hi, Captain!
   Your post is really informative! I’m also curious about working internationally as a pilot since I’m currently studying as an international 12th-grade student in the U.S. Can you share some advice about flight school and your experience of becoming a pilot?

3. […] This article was written for Singaporeans who are interested in becoming an Airline Pilot in Singapore, have decided self-funding a Commercial Pilot Licence Training (CPL), but is still undecided on whether to get a CAAS Commercial Pilot License or FAA Commercial Pilot License. If you’re still undecided on how you’ll like to become a Pilot in Singapore, read this a… […]

4. 

   hi .. my son is 14 year old this year he dream to be a pilot … do u think poly path is better for him or jc

   1. 

      Hi there. Both a diploma or alevels will do just fine. With a diploma or alevels your Son can qualify for the RSAF or SIA cadet. If he doesn’t get into one of them, have about $150k+ (in today’s value) ready if you want to help him with getting his CPL privately!

      1. 

         what diplomas would be useful to qualify for the RSAF or SIA cadet

         1. 

            Any diploma with a good pass should meet the minimum requirements for RSAF and SIA Cadets.

5. 

   Hi Captain Ong. Is ‘O’ Level with a Diploma needed as part of the academic requirement as a pilot or is ‘N’ Level with Diploma sufficient?

   1. 

      If you’re thinking of getting your own licence, N levels is good enough. But if you are thinking of joining the RSAF or SIA Cadet programme, because competition is so tough, I recommend u getting a diploma or degree.

6. 

   Hi Sir. I understand that Embry Riddle Asia now offers a degree with a minor in Flying that is tied up with SIA, but I am wondering if getting a degree with a FAA CPL is better than getting a CPL from STAA straight, considering the “reputation” of different flight schools.

   Greatly appreciated.

   1. 

      This will forever be a question that can’t be answered. A degree allows you to fall back to possibly work in an office job in an airline if you’re unable to secure a job as a pilot. But to get a degree will require >2 years, while a licence will take <1 year. Is that 1 extra year staying in school, as compared to having that 1 year to be already working in an airline worth that fallback insurance?

7. 

   Is private degree recognise to apply for pilot?

   1. 

      A licence is required, a degree not necessary.

8. 

   Hi Captain,
   I’m currently 19 years old and i have the aspiration to become a pilot, but i have National Service to serve for 2 years here in singapore. Was it possible to secure a spot in the cadet pilot programme 2 years prior to joining? Also when you said that we have to be bonded for 7 years do the years include the training or it’s the time spent after.
   Much Thanks!

   1. 

      It is likely you can only go for the interview for cadet programme after you finish NS. SQ’s job listing says that the 7 years will only start after you become an operational pilot in the airline. Probably takes 2-3 years before your 7 years start.

9. 

   Hi Mr Ong, I am thinking about taking the Ab-initio cadet pilot programme at SIA, may I just know the duration of the programme, and after the programme what is my position in SIA? Is it First Officer?

   1. 

      The duration of the course should be about 1 year. After getting your licence, you should serve as a Second Officer for a few years before becoming a First Officer.

10. 

    Hi Captain Ong, if I get a cpl via the sia abintio cadet pilot programme, does it mean Ill be a first officer? does a line pilot equal to first officer? Do I have a secured job via the SIA Ab initio cadet pilot programme?

    1. 

       A line pilot is basically any pilot that flies in the airline. Could be a Captain, First officer or Second Officer. After getting your CPL via the ABinition programme, you should go on the line as a second officer initially. Based on SIA’s history, a job in SIA is generally secure. Even in bad years, Pilots are seldom “sacked”. They are usually put on no-pay leave and allowed to return once the economy turns around. But like all commercial entities, that practice may or may not change in the next period of pilot oversupply

11. 

    Hi Captain Ong,

    I’m currently 16 studying grade 10 here in Australia. I am from Singapore and is currently holding a citizenship there and I have a vested interest in joining SIA’s cadet program.

    SIA’s listing mentioned that I would need a GCE ‘A’ Level, Polytechnic Diploma or Degree. How would you recommend that I approach the pre-requisites required. After all, it seems like the cadet program is very competitive. Any stats?

    (Noting that we have something equivalent to GCE called VCE here in Melbourne, Australia).

    Thanks.

    1. 

       I am sorry but I an not very familiar with the intricacies of Australia education. However, I believe that if you finish university in Australia, SIA would recognise it as a “Degree” equivalent, much like many of the civil service jobs in Singapore.

12. 

    HI Captain Ong ,
    May I know which subject combination to take in Sec 2 (normal academic) to become a pilot?
    Thank you

    1. 

       Hi there, while its not really important which subjects you should take in terms of prerequisites, any science (particularly physics, so combined science) and math (maybe additional math) based subjects should help you in learning aviation.

13. 

    Hii, Captain ONG

    I m 12th pass student from India. I m thinking to join Ab initio pilot program. Is there any way to join this program for an Indian citizen

    1. 

       I do not know, but no harm attempting to apply!

14. 

    Hi Captain Ong,
    About the cadet-pilot programme for Singapore Airlines,

    I have a bachelor degree in Engineering (university graduated), do I still need the score in GEC ‘A’, ‘O’ level or polytechnic?

    Also on the website does not provide any information about the requirements in nationality, my nationality is Thai, does the programme accept applicants internationally?

    Thank you very much.

    1. 

       Hi, you can check the job listing on Singapore airline’s website to see their nationality requirements.

       But on the other hand, if I am not wrong, Thai airway has a very active cadet programme, and you should seriously consider applying to that!

15. […] There are other routes to take to becoming an Airline Pilot in Singapore. For example, many Airline Pilots in Singapore started their career in the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). Explore some of these options here. […]

16. 

    Hello Captain Ong,

    I am 28 this year. I had went for SIA cadet pilot twice. First was preliminary interview. Didn’t make it through. Second was failed at compass test.
    I have then applied again for the 3rd this year. I would like to seek your advise. If I failed the cadet pilot interview many times, do I still stand a chance to try again?

    1. 

       Hi there, there is no harm applying a 3rd time. Its free! And persistence might just pay-off. As an insurance, maybe you should consider your options with Scoot Cadet (self sponsored) or getting your own licence. You can read my article here (updating to include cadet programmes right at this moment).

17. 

    Hi Captain Ong,

    I am about to enter university next year. Would you suggest I go to university first, then once graduated apply to SIA or self-fund, or just apply straightaway? I’ve always wanted to be a pilot my entire life.

    Regards,

    1. 

       Hi, if you want to go self-funded, you can consider doing the licence before University. Once you get your licence, you can apply to the airlines, and there might be a chance you can get hired by an airline as a 20 year old.

       If you want to get into a cadet programme, maybe go to university and do well there before applying.

       1. 

          Alright, thanks for your input!

18. 

    Hi,
    I’m interested in becoming a commercial pilot, and am looking at what options I have for sponsorship.

    Would you happen to know if SIA accept applications from foreigners (UK), and what accommodations would be made for prospective interviewees?

    Thanks

    1. 

       Hi there, i believe SIA’s website would state whether they will be hiring Singaporeans only or all nationalities. In any case, whether they are accepting all nationalities or not, there is no harm in just sending an application. The act of doing it is free, and the reward of the small chance of getting selected is high.

       In terms of accommodations for the interview, while i do not have any official information, it is likely you will need to self-fund the ticket back to Singapore and the living and accommodations expenses.

19. 

    Hi CPT Ong, i’m 34 this yr and is interested in becoming a pilot. However, I’m only 1.54m in height and wondering if there is any min height requirements tobe a pilot. Additionally, any idea how much will the self funded program with scoot cost us?

    1. 

       I’m not too sure of any official height requirement my the aircraft manufacturer. SIA used to publish 165 as the requirement for their cadet programme, but a quick search today revealed that requirement is no longer published on their website. Your best bet will be to apply to the cadet programme and see how it goes. A rough estimate of the self funded programme is between 150,000 to 200,000 sgd.

20. 

    Dear Captain Ong, i’m 34 this yr and is interested in becoming a pilot. However, I’m only 1.54m in height and wondering if there is any min height requirements tobe a pilot. Additionally, any idea how much will the self funded program with scoot cost us?

    1. 

       I’m not too sure of any official height requirement my the aircraft manufacturer. SIA used to publish 165 as the requirement for their cadet programme, but a quick search today revealed that requirement is no longer published on their website. Your best bet will be to apply to the cadet programme and see how it goes. A rough estimate of the self funded programme is between 150,000 to 200,000 sgd.

21. 

    Hi captain, I am currently 16 years old and I have always aspired to become a pilot when I grow up. However, I do not take physics in secondary school level. Am I still be able to become a pilot by attending the youth flying club in Singapore. Kindly advise thanks so much

    1. 

       Hi there, i don’t think that will be a problem. You’ll definitely increase your chance of becoming an airline pilot if you attend singapore youth flying club, especially if you get your PPL from there! your experience in SYFC will make your resume look better and it’ll help you develop as a professional pilot!

22. 

    Hi Captain Ong

    My son is 13 and started attending an aviation school in singapore (aeroaviation) lead by Captain Saravanan. I know this seems very early but i think all your posts are very clear that it cost a bomb to take on this career unless he gets accepted by SIA. My question here is that, will a diploma be sufficient or a degree will boost his chances on top of his experience with a G1000 Cessna 172 Flight Simulator and his theory knowledge learnt in the academy help? He will be taking his RPL in Perth when he turns 15. How will this help his chance later on or it won’t? Since this involves alot of money, i wish to get a 2nd opinion on this. Hope to hear from you Captain

    1. 

       Hi there, sorry i’m not familiar with Aero Aviation. Is it possible for you to send me some details? Website or brochure?

       A diploma will be sufficient for a self sponsored CPL. I know many colleagues with a Diploma having a very good career in the airlines. But for SIA’s Cadet Programme, because its very competitive, it’ll be better to have very good GPA with a Degree, to increase your chance.

       Also, any aviation related experience or certification will play very well to his resume in future. Experiences with the flight simulator and certifications in the academy will definitely increase his chance in getting into a cadet programme, as long as it is highlighted and sold well enough at the interview. an RPL will also definitely increase his chance! Once of the most common questions asked at the interview is “what flying experience do you have?”

23. 

    Thank you so much Captain. Your answers are along the same line as what Captain Sara advised. Is is recommended for an aviation degree or any degree will be ok?

    Here are the links the academy. One is their previously named academy before they changed the name to aeroaviation. But ultimately the same school and instructors:

    https://www.facebook.com/sgatraining/

    https://www.facebook.com/aeroviationsg/

    1. 

       Hi there. a degree is not necessary to qualify for a job, because all you need is a licence.

24. 

    Hi Captain Ong.

    I am malaysian and currently applied for SIA Cadet Pilot Ab Initio Malaysia.

    I have a Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance with a CGPA 3.92.

    Ive been thinking about to invest my own money in getting a PPL at Air Adventure Flying Club, Subang.

    My questions are;

    1. With these two, am I going to be a strong potential candidate for the Cadetship in SIA?

    2. Is investing in PPL will greatly enhance my chances? Because Ive asked a recruiter from Air Asia and he said investing in PPL would not increase my chances.

    Thank you in advance Captain.

    1. 

       Hi there.

       1. your background shows a lot of passion in aviation. So long as the interview board sees that, i believe you stand a good chance.
       2. getting your PPL will only reinforce the impression that you are passionate.

       Cheers!

25. 

    Hello Captain Ong,

    I’m 17 as of year 2018 and schooling at Ngee Ann Poly under Financial Informatics. I have a dream that I only realised upon entering poly to become a pilot. I’d like to ask for advice regarding what should I do after my Polytechnic/National Service. Should I go to the SFC? Or should I sign on to the Air Force?

    (PS: I had been rejected from the SYFC but for reasons unknown. I fear it may be a medical issue but I’m skeptical about it…)

    Many thanks,
    Jer

    1. 

       Hi there. U should try out all your options! Go out airforce and SIA cadet! If u don’t get through, consider getting your own licence

26. 

    Hello Captain Ong. Thank you for your very informative blog. I have a question that I cannot seem to find the definitive answer. I am an American Citizen, can I apply to the Singapore Airlines Cadet Pilot Programme as a foreigner or is it only open to Singaporeans? Thank you. Have a nice day.

    1. 

       From time to time the programme is opened to foreigners. u should visit their website from time to time to see when that changes!

27. 

    i m 18 this year i m currently a spm holder from malaysia planning to enrol myself in a level is there any chance to get into SIA cadet program?

    1. 

       visit SIA’s cadet pilot HR page to see if they are taking in malaysians at this time! the open and close the window from time to time.

28. 

    hi Captain ONG,
    i’m from Algeria and my dream to be a pilot started a few years ago, i have a 14/20 in my high school diploma (GCE Level) and bachelor degree in physics with a master degree in Energies, i want to apply for the SIA cadet program but i still have some questions hope you answer it for me:
    is 14/20 considered as GCE A level?
    i have a 6.5 IELTS, do you recommend me to repass it?
    ”Myopia of below 600 degrees and astigmatism of below 200 degrees per eye (Applies to both pre- and post-operative eyesight)” what would my medical paper looks like? should i pass the Class A medical test or a simple visit to the doctor is enough? (i have an astegmatism of 180°, i’m i still have a chance?)

    as you can see, i really want to be a pilot but i’m quite not sure that i fit the requirements, i passed before the ADAPt test of OAA and i got the golden grade, from that date my passion to the aviation field starts, now i’m looking for a way to make this dream come true “a sponsored program”

    Thanks in advence Captain.

    1. 

       You look like you have the minimum requirements. Go ahead and try and let SIA decided whether u qualify or not! =)

       1. 

          i did but no answer, i plan to start my ATPL in a private school in my country and then to look forward for a high airline company, thank you for the support

29. 

    hello Captain,

    i have some questions about the SIA requirements, are you still connecting to this post?
    Thanks

    1. 

       I am, but most of SIA’s requirements are already published on their website.

30. 

    Hello captain, im 13 years old and im interested to become one of SIA pilot. Is there a big competition/rivalry to become one of the SIA pilot? Thank you

    1. 

       Yes, typically SIA receives many times more in applications than the slots available. Having said that, no harm in applying for a position!

31. 

    Hi capt OnG, myself a student from india, what does the word fully sponsered mean? Is that the during the training program organisation will fund us and serving them and paying back or what sir?

    1. 

       Hi there, SIA pays for your training, but you’ll pay back the amount over a few years once you start flying operationally on the line. But you’ll fork out $0 for your own training, which is good for most people.

32. 

    Hi Captain Ong, I did sent in my resume to apply cadet pilot but wasn’t get a reply.
    I’m Malaysian, pilot is my dream for the entire life.
    I got my “E” on my SPM English result. But I did manage to get my Diploma in Nursing in Malaysia and currently practice in Singapore. I wish to has chance to enter this field.
    I will be very happy if you have any suggestions or recommendations for me.

    1. 

       hi there. My suggestion is to keep applying and don’t give up! Spam the application website every 6 months if you have to. good luck!

33. 

    Hi Captain Ong,

    I previously applied for RSAF pilot but I didn’t even make it through the selection phase due to spinal X-ray. And now that I finished my NS, I want to apply for the SIA cadet pilot programme.
    Will it increase my chances if I include the selection phase in my resume?

    Also, I understand that RSAF has a strict clearance level. Do you know if SIA has the same level of security clearance in order to get in? Can I still apply if my Father has a criminal record?

    Thank you so much,
    Evan

    1. 

       I believe including your experiences in the selection should improve your chances, because it shows persistence and passion. I don’t believe your parent’s records will be held against you, as long as you show merits of your own.

34. 

    Dear Captain Ong,
    Good day Sir! I am an aspiring aviator and I have a degree in nautical science. Which means I have background in navigation, meteorology, stability and safety. I also have basic aeronautical knowledge on the principles and the science of flight. I read several books in aviation on my spare time on board. My first airplane flying experience was SIA Manila to Singapore in 2014 and 2015. From then I continue to desire becoming a pilot. The principles of flight when I saw at MIT edX. So I got a basic idea on how the airplane flies and further more on reading example Boeing 777 FCOM and Flying The Big Jets.
    I attempted to apply for Cadet Pilot Program of SIA last 2018 but not yet submitted or further accomplished. SIA is interested on the passion and they will hire even with zero flying hours. My concern is when I don’t have even a little flying experience and finished ATPL Papers at Singapore Flying College SFC and move to Australia for flying hours. I have read from a forum that when I do not have experience on flying small aircrafts and only a limited time is required in SFC Jandakot, Australia then a cadet will certainly be terminated from the program. Is that true sir?
    You said that applying for the program is free and a small chance of getting in is high. I always wanted to be an aviator and hope to pass with the interviews and aptitude tests. And I have read from one of the aspirants that he or she applied yet failed once or even twice yet being persistent to become a pilot of SIA. I am preparing for it and goal to make flying in to reality. I do not mind other merits offered by the company but for me is the joy of flying and her science and customer satisfaction as well. Thank you sir for the guidance and hope to be a part of SIA Pilots.
    God bless sir and Mabuhay!

    1. 

       Hi there, thanks for your question. Its interesting to know that you’ve already read a large jet’s FCOM. the FCOM is considered a very dry document and if you can stay awake reading it, i have no doubt about your passion.

       anyway, regarding your question about termination, i don’t think you should be too worried about it for now. Just try your best to get through the interview, and let the cadet programme do its job in grooming you. Work hard and enjoy the process, and you should do fine.

35. 

    Hello captain Ong , I am
    Currently 17 and going Aviation Management in TP . I am really interested in aviation . I have already attained both SG and FAA PPL at Syfc and Seletar flying club.
    I took biology as a subject in the O-levels and I want to apply to SQ in the future . What will my chances be ? How will I fare as compared to the rest of the applicants who have taken up physics .
    Thank you !
    Do email me also :0
    I really look forward for your reply

    1. 

       Hi there. Happy to meet an aviation enthusiast like you. SQ’s hiring criteria is someone what secretive. But from all the SIA pilots i know, they are a very diverse bunch and a Bio student like you will not be disadvantaged as compared to someone with physics. What i think will put you at an advantage would be the fact that you have a licence, a proof of your passion.

36. 

    Hi I’m really interested in aviation. Is college degree required to be an airline pilot? Currently, I’m Grade 11 (Incoming Grade 12 in few months). Thank you!

    1. 

       I’ve just written a post on this topic! Do i need a degree to be a pilot in Singapore

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