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AIRLINE PILOT
INTERVIEW WORK BOOK
Contents
1.
2.
3.
4.
INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
THE PHONE INTERVIEW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
SKYPE OR VIDEO INTERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
THE PANEL INTERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
First Impressions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The format of a typical panel interview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
What the interviews are looking for. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5. HOW TO ANSWER THE QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
The three most important questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
QUESTION 1. Can you tell us about yourself?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
QUESTION 2. What attributes will you bring to this company?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
QUESTION 3. Why do you want to work for our airline?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
6. OTHER POWERFUL QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Negative style questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Weaknesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Overcoming Negatives and the F Word. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
7. BEHAVIOURAL QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Tell us about a time ...? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
8. TECHNICAL QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
How to answer open ended technical questions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Scenario style technical questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Sample technical questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
9. SCENARIO BASED QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
10. DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR US? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
11. TOP 50 INTERVIEW QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
12. GROUP EXERCISES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
13. RESUME AND COVER LETTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
14. HELP DESK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
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1. INTRODUCTION
Airline pilot interviews have evolved dramatically over the last decade. Gone are the days of
two check captains rigorously probing your aerodynamic technical knowledge. Nowadays
the interview team will generally consist of at least one member of the human resources
department and representatives of flight operations.
The modern airline interview is now centered around the behavioral based concept developed by human resource
teams around the world and can seemingly have very little to do with aviation. Behavioral based interviews work on the
premise that how you have conducted yourself in the past is indicative of how you will perform in the future.
There are three general categories of behavioral questions:
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Tips!
M
ake an appointment for the phone interview and ensure you can take the call at a time that will allow you not to be
distracted and you are in a quiet location.
Remain professional, remembering this is an interview.
Refer to your notes but dont read from them, use bullet points for reference.
Stay upbeat, positive and passionate.
Smile when you talk, this will alter the tone of your voice conveying a friendly, positive demeanor.
Use short, clear and concise answers.
Turn Call Waiting OFF!
Whilst the interview will normally last 10- 15 minutes, be prepared to clear an hour of your time so as not to be time
pressured. There are several standard questions that must be asked and this will allow you to prepare in advance.
During your preparation write your answers in point form. During the interview this will allow you to refer to your notes
whilst still ensuring your answers are fresh, natural and unscripted.
The opening questions will normally confirm the information that they have about you is correct. Your contact
information, licenses, ratings and flying hours. Know your CV and make sure it is up to date.
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Notes
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Tips!
D
ress should be neat, tidy and appropriate. There is no such thing as over dressing in a job interview, however it is
best to be conservative.
A confident handshake, but not too firm, making eye contact with your opposite.
Have a pleasant and warm smile.
Make positive small talk, this will help to settle your nerves.
Be courteous and attentive.
Have a positive, confident outlook on the day.
Y
ou have worked hard for this day, dont blow it by making a joke thats taken the wrong way. I have seen too many
jokes back fire on the candidate, its not professional and has no place in todays professional job interview.
Use common sense
Be yourself, but be the best version of yourself possible. We all like to work with people we like and who like us.
Turn your phone OFF, dont just leave it on Silent.
Watch your small talk, So your just the recruiter? Wont go down very well.
E
veryone you meet is part of the interview process. Dont tell jokes to the secretary or ask where the little boys
room is. Maintain your professionalism throughout.
Notes
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1. Overall personality, will you fit in, are you what we are looking for?
2. How you cope under stress, particularly when you have made an error or mistake.
3. Can you be trained, i.e. are you able to take direction?
4. Your ability to use reasoning and logic
5. Your command potential
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Do Not:
Make excuses
Become defensive
Continue to try and justify your answer
Act dejected
Continue to dwell on it to the point where you lose your concentration.
There is a point to all of this, it is essential to demonstrate to the panel how you perform under pressure. In the Human
Resources world there is a theory on behavioural patterns. The theory is that how you have behaved in the past is
indicative of how you will perform in the future. i.e. when your backed into a corner do you problem solve using logic,
experience etc and how well do you recover from errors.
Do:
Work with them and follow their guidance, take the new information with enthusiasm and a positive approach.
I hadnt thought of it like that?
Of course, that makes sense now!
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Do Not:
Allow yourself to be put into a position where you might be seen as argumentative
Become disagreeable or show lack of interest.
Justify your lack of knowledge in the area.
I havent flown the 747 so I really cant answer that question
Tips!
Remain positive
Take your time
Apply your knowledge of your current aircraft type and apply it to your answer.
Break your answer down, keep it simple.
Use reasoning and logic in constructing your answer.
Example:
Describe to us the new Airbus A370 fuel system
OK, I havent had the opportunity as yet to fly the A370 but I will give it a go, Being that the A370 is an ultra long range
twin engine aircraft capable of flying up to 19 hours I would imagine it would have a fuel capacity in the vicinity of 160
tonnes ( nineteen hours plus one hour of reserve at say eight tonnes an hour ), two wing tanks plus a centre wing tank
minimum, at least one stage of fuel/ oil heat exchanger and would be delivered pressurized to the engines
OK, anything else
Yes, there would certainly be a cross feed system, a jettison system and a fuel management system
Do Not:
Justify your lack of knowledge of the aircraft or systems
Be embarrassed to have a go.
Notes
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NOTES
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Q Nice to meet you Mark, why dont you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?
Some may call it an ice breaker but in reality it sets the tone for the remainder of the interview.
Your answer must highlight and concentrate primarily on your aviation career, you are there for an aviation position so
keep it aviation related.
Your answer should be more than just a repeat of your C.V.
Structure your answer using the following guidelines;
Start off with a quick introduction of yourself, your interests and the current position you hold.
T
hen go all the way back to the beginning of your interest in aviation, how you went about achieving your licences
and ratings, leading into your first job and subsequent career.
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W
hen you mention each position and job, talk about what you learnt and your experiences there. Try to keep it brief
avoiding long, drawn out stories. Accentuate the positives of your time at the company.
B
ring your story to a close with a brief but strong summary of your current position and employment.. This is referred
to as closing the loop.
F
inally, finish off with a statement such as I am ready to take the next step in my career and are very excited about
this opportunity today
A My name is Jason Stevens, I am 28 years old, married and the father of two young girls. I am a keen
fisherman and enjoy keeping fit by cycling and chasing my girls around the backyard.
I am currently employed as a Dash 8 First Officer with Central Plains Airlines. I remember from a
very young age I always wanted to be a pilot. So when I graduated, I worked full time in a factory
to save up enough money to start my Commercial Licence. I also took out a personal loan, which
I have almost paid off. This enabled me to enroll in a full time course. I completed my commercial
license in 2002 at Proflite Flying School in California and was immediately employed as a flight
instructor. I really enjoyed instructing, not only did I get to hone my skills but it was such a pleasure
to see my students evolve into pilots, the highlight was always sending them first solo. In late 2004,
after 2 years of instructing I had just over 1000hrs, so I decided it was time to look at expanding
my experience. Fortunately enough I was offered a fantastic position with Phoenix Air Charter. This
involved relocating to Phoenix to take up a First Officer position on a Brasilia. Unfortunately shortly
after my initial line check the company went into liquidation. I found myself out of work, so in order to
support my family I undertook casual waiting jobs at night whilst job hunting by day. Throughout this
time I maintained my motivation and never gave up. In December 2006 I was offered and accepted
a position with Central Plains Airlines in Arizona on the Metroliner and worked my way up to the
position of First Officer on the Dash 8-400. I have been with Central Plains Airlines for just over 4
years now, throughout this time I have enjoyed learning the airline way and specifically the multi crew
operations. I now have just over 4000hrs total with 2600 hrs on turbo props. I feel I am ready for the
next challenge in my career and am very excited to have this opportunity today with your airline.
It is essential to rehearse this answer, however it must come over as fresh, interesting and unscripted. The best way
to achieve this is by keeping the manner and grammar of your answer informal, as if you are chatting to a friend over
coffee. It needs to come from the heart and have your passion and enthusiasm shine through.
Stories about your time in a particular company will keep the panel interested as well as making your answer personal
to you.
The importance of this is that when the company has the wash up of all the interviewees for the week they will
review the notes on your particular interview. You want to stand out through keeping your answers interesting, not by a
scripted, perfectly worded answer that is impersonal.
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Try to create a hook in your answer. This is something the interviewers will remember you by. Unfortunately most
candidates tend to blend into one another after long days of interviewing. If you can add in an interesting story or fact
about yourself, this will give them something to remember you by. the guy that grew up in Kenya, the guy that use to
look after a camel heard in Australia. The guy that use to work at that Tequila factory putting those little red hats on the
bottles. The girl that use to drive 3 hours each way to go to her flying lessons on the weekends. Hooks make you
memorable and create an anchor for the interviewers to fall back on.
When you discuss employment at a previous company always talk about the positives of your time there. If you find that
you had difficultly in certain positions and times in your career the less said the better. Keep it brief and positive.
it was challenging, I learnt a lot from my time there.
If for some reason you left a company on unhappy terms, there is no need to go into to much detail , in fact there is no
need to mention why you left.
After 8 months I then had accumulated just over 1000hrs total and I was really looking at consolidating my instrument
flying and building my experience in charter and mulit-engine flying. After a short time canvassing my preferred
companies I was fortunate enough to be offered employment with...
You didnt mention the negatives of why you moved on, you also didnt lie about it, you just left it out and concentrated
on the positives of how you moved forward with your career.
If you were fired or let go from a position, please refer to our chapter on The F Word.
Remember, everything is positive, all is good, you are an upbeat and happy person with a fantastic outlook on life! If
this persona is displayed then this is how the interviewers will remember you. If you come across as a negative person
who has had a hard career and feels hard done by, then the interviewers will go away with a negative outlook on your
performance and will certainly think twice about employing someone with those characteristics.
Interviewers remember negative statements. Avoid using I cant I dont or I havent, instead tell them you what you
are willing to do or try and what you are looking forward to. Always end on a positive. If you havent flown a twin aircraft
or operated multi-crew, say When the opportunity presents itself I am ready and I am very much looking forward to it.
Isnt that better than saying. I havent flown multi-crew yet. or I dont get to fly the twins, Im too junior.
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If you have areas of non-aviation employment then by all means mention it, however keep it brief. For example:
From 2002 to 2004 I was employed in various IT positions for two major communications companies based
out of Sydney.
Tips!
Talk slowly and emphasis the important information.
Be sincere, passionate and positive!
Dont waffle or repeat yourself, keep it short and to the point. Thorough yet succinct.
Be clear, concise whilst using positive words.
Never make a personal comment or opinion on someone or something.
Add in short examples of your time in particular companies
Remember your posture, its not just what you say but how you say it.
B
e familiar with yourself, your work experience and the skills you bring to the table. Match these with the position
and organisation you are interviewing for.
Dont talk and waste time on irrelevant skills, certificates and experience, leave that information to the resume.
Use positive body language, dont shift in your seat, or cross your arms, it states nervousness and disinterest.
Be focused and pay attention to what is going on, having a good response to the questions being asked is crucial.
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This question is all about you and this is your moment to ...
There is a simple method to follow that helps anyone to answer this question. The best way to start is to write down 5
descriptive words that best describe you. Expanding the words into examples.
Passionate
Show initiative
Driven
Hard working
Positive
Respectful
Team Player
Focused
Responsible
Energetic
Enthusiastic
Calm
Approachable
Professional
Unfazed
Composed
Gentle
Active
Honest
Reliable
Dedicated
Flexible
Friendly
Integrity
Loyal
Patient
Relaxed
Emphatic
Leadership
Communicator
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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to support my passion for flying and to allow myself to pursue my career in aviation. On completion of my
commercial pilots licence I packed my bags and headed North to Darwin in hope of finding work. After
3 months of cleaning hangars I was offered my first charter flight with the company. I was told it was in
reward for my hard work and dedication. I stayed with that company for over 3 years, during which time I
moved up through the ranks until I was flying RPT multi-crew operations on the metroliner.
I am also very reliable. I am more than happy to help out in anyway that I can and my company know
that they can always rely on me. Recently the company found themselves short staffed at the last minute
so they called me on a day off, I was in the pre-flight briefing within the hour. In the past I have also helped
out with extensions of duty when requested.
I am very passionate about my flying career, from a very young age I have loved aviation. I still to this
day collect model aircraft and am always excited to go to work and never think of it as a chore. I wear my
uniform with pride and I am always striving to do the best job possible on every flight.
*I am also very honest and approachable. I am not afraid to admit fault, own up to a problem
or speak up if I feel I need to. I believe my honesty and positive outlook on life also makes me more
approachable. In the past I have often found myself being approached by the new guy who has
numerous questions about our operation and I am more than happy to sit down and go over things to help
out in my spare time. This is what I have to offer Virtual Airlines.
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Know your opening and closing statements by heart and make them powerful!
Brief History
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Alliances
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Having now done your research combine your information into a unique answer.
thinking. They have adjusted their brand and are expanding into the professional business side
of the market The company has a secure financial position with recent expansions internationally
into the Asia Pacific region along with the aqisition of Skywest, providing plenty of opportunity
for advancement. They have a modern fleet of aircraft that are highly efficient, flying to interesting
destinations around Australia and the Pacific. Everyone within the company seems to have an energy
about them that is contagious, they are open, upbeat and friendly. On a personal note working
for Virgin Australia would offer me a long-term stable career with boundless opportunities in an
environment that is enjoyable, ever changing and one that I would be very proud to be a part of.
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Notes
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Example
A I hope to gain a long-term stable career with a company that offers a variety of flying, both domestic
and international with a variety of modern jet aircraft. I hope to gain my Captaincy on the B737 and
with my instructing background possibly move into a position of check and training. I would also look
forward to going to work each day knowing that I would be operating with crew that are genuinely
happy, friendly and professional.
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Tips!
Show positive and confident body language.
Be brief.
Dont justify, just state the facts.
Only mention one point.
Mention only positives about the company.
Dont act dejected.
Short, to the point and move on.
Just answer the question.
EXAMPLE
Q What dont you like about your current job?
I am currently flying the largest aircraft in the company. I have achieved all I have set out to achieve within
the company. As much as I love the company and the position, I feel now is an ideal time to move on in
order to satisfy my career objectives and goals.
Q What would you change about the company you currently work for if you had the chance?
For this style of question think about how you could improve the company in order to make it more efficient and effective
and improve their bottom line.
1. I would implement a more structured rostering system, possibly a rolling four week roster, including a
rotating standby system. Not only would this improve pilot morale and even out the work load, it would
also increase productivity thereby creating a more efficient and effective company.
2. I would consider introducing basings at two of our busiest ports. Currently we have several pilots
and crew that overnight in A and B cities with the added expense of hotels, meals and transport. If we
introduced basing, which I know would be a popular decision among the crew, I believe the company
could make significantly savings.
Q If you had a job offer from both us and XXX Airlines, which one would you choose?
This is obviously a delicate question and one that will require a lot of thought on your behalf before the interview. Stay
upbeat and positive, Heres an example.
If I am fortunate to be offered positions with both companies I will stick to my original goal of working
with Jetblue. Jetblue can offer me the opportunities to fly a range of aircraft both domestically and
internationally and I believe has the right culture fit for me as a person
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Word of WARNING! Avoid at all cost any situation or answer that may be construed as being negative.
Q This position involves you moving country, you will be based in Hong Kong, why dont you want
to live in your own country?
Well its got nothing to do with not wanting to live in my own country, I love my own country,
however if the opportunities for me to advance my career and fly for the company I have always
dreamed of involve living in Hong Kong, I am very excited about that too.
Again, short to the point, positive and nothing said about what you DONT WANT, everthing is about what you DO want.
Another style of question:
Q Why dont you want to work for one of your own carriers, there is nothing wrong with them?
Now you have a go at answering this one:
Q Tell us about a time recently you have been under stress, how did you recognize it and how did
you cope with it? or How do you cope with stress in general?
This doesnt specifically have to be about aviation. What they are looking for is how you cope with stress in general
and how you analyze problems from the past. Be honest about the problem and how it affected you without going into
too much detail. Remember to add in how you cope with stress in general. Dont forget they are looking for how you
recognised the stress and how you coped and then how you solved the problem. They dont care what the stressor was
so you can be honest here.
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Notes
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Weaknesses
What is a weakness of yours?
Name three of your weaknesses?
What would you say is your biggest weakness?
What would your superior say is something you could improve on?
When you mention weaknesses you want to select those that are actually similar to your strengths, or attributes. You
should structure your answer to include the following;
What it is
Why you believe it is a weakness
That you are aware of it
How you cope with it
What you are doing about it
If you have mentioned that you are very reliable as one of your strengths, because you always answer the phone on
days off, always extend duty when required and rarely call in sick etc. Then you can use this as a weakness.
For Example;
What it is
I find it hard to say No to people.
Notes
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1. Periods of unemployment.
If you have had extended periods of unemployment highlight positively how you filled your time.
A During the downturn of 2008 I found myself un-employed for a period of six months. Whilst still actively
job hunting I filled in my extra time by starting a fitness regime of cycling, swimming and yoga. For mental
stimulation every Friday I worked as a volunteer at the local school library.
SAS
SUMMARISE AND STOP
3. Being Fired.
COPING WITH THE F WORD IN AN INTERVIEW.
You would be surprised to know that there are a lot more pilots out there that have been Fired other than yourself,
including, most probably one or two of those sitting on the interview panel.
The problem is of course, you are the one being interviewed so how are you going to deal with it?
I know through personal experience what It is like to be fired and there are quiet a few emotions you will go through, but
there is light at the end of the tunnel if you follow a few simple tips.
First of all the emotions will probably involve;
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Now What?
How am I ever going to get another job, how am I ever going to explain this in an interview, who would want to hire me?
Have I ruined forever my chances of a career?
It is all up to you now, the key is knowing how to turn this negative event in your career into a positive event.
Blame.
You simply cannot go into an interview and blame someone else for your actions. The only person to blame is yourself,
It wasnt your boss, the aircraft, the operation etc.
This may take a while to get your head around but the reality is, you are the only one to blame here. The sooner you
realise this, the sooner you can get back into the workforce. Try to look at it objectively and avoid emotion here, again
stick to facts and keep emotions at bay.
Be Accountable
OK, so you have accepted the blame now it is time to take responsibility and look back at how and why things went
wrong. Accepting and learning from this is the key. However you can achieve this, be it through talking to close friends,
meditation, long walks, time out and even therapy. You need to find peace with this.
Do not be ashamed. You will find the more you talk about this, the quicker you get over it. It happened, how you deal
with it will determine whether or not you get through the interview. Again, if it is not a problem for you, it wont be a
problem for them. You may be surprised to know that in the end most people dont really even care that you were fired.
The Story
What exactly do you say, how much detail do I go into, how do I explain what happened?
Be concise and to the point, leave emotions behind. They will not expect a detailed account of what happened and you
should not offer them one.
Practice
It is essential to practice and rehearse your answer, to anyone who will listen and ask them to be objective.
Would you hire me after that?
The more comfortable and confident you are talking about it in a professional manner the more likely it is you will gain
the respect of the panel.
Notes
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7. BEHAVIOURAL QUESTIONS
Tell us about a time ...?
These type of questions are known as behavioral questions and the theory, rightly or wrongly is that how you have
behaved, reacted, managed, conducted yourself in the past is an indication of how you will behave in the future. They
are a feature of the modern job interview and can be quite daunting to the unprepared.
Behavioral questions generally fall into three categories.
In preparation for these questions we recommend putting together a list of at least five scenarios that you have
PERSONNALLY been Involved with. They must be aviation related. Once you have thought out and planned your
examples you can adapt them to virtually any question that is thrown your way.
If the interview is purely based on behavioral questions (No Technical questions) it is advised to come up with at least
eight scenarios.
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1.
When have you been involved with a task that had a deadline?
2.
(Hint; A team can consist of yourself, ground staff, loaders and other crewmembers.)
3.
(Hint; Be honest, say what was difficult, dont offer excuses, end on how you dealt with it.)
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4. When you had to change your communication style to suit your audience.
(Hint; Someone where English was their second language, or a non aviation person.)
5.
(Hint; This should be early on in your career when mistakes are expected to be made).
Now that you have your examples, when structuring your answers follow this three-part process using the acronym:
S. A. O
S = The situation. You must explain the situation in detail. When (time frame),
What (you were flying) Where (you were flying) and Who you were with. The
more detail you give the better for them to understand the Actions you took.
A=T
he Actions. The actions and options you come up with are the key. The
really dont care about the situation, how bad it was, what they care about
are the actions you took and the options you came up with in order to get
yourself out of the situation.
O = The Outcome. This can include a basic summary of what happened in the
end, however it may also include what you learnt in the process that has
now built you to be the person and pilot that you are today.
This may seem easy, but its not! What can tend to happen here is we get so caught up in telling our story, by the end
of it we have completely forgotten what the question is and the interviewers are wondering if you even answered the
question!
So to avoid this happening to you in the interview we have a simple method use to answer these style of questions.
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The Situation
A time I had to act quickly on my feet was about 3 months ago when I was operating a charter
flight from Moree to Brisbane in a Cessna 310 with four passengers on board. On reaching the
circuit area and lowering the landing gear I received both visual and oral cues that the left gear
was not fully extended.
The Outcome
I completed my landing checklist and made a normal approach and landing. On disembarking the
group leader commented on my calm demeanor and professionalism during a tense situation. So
that would be a time I can say that I had to act quickly on my feet.
The Situation
Your Actions
The Outcome
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The Situation
Your Actions
The Outcome
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Tell us about a time you have had a personal conflict with a work colleague?
The Situation
Your Actions
The Outcome
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When have you had to change your communication style to get your point across?
The Situation
Your Actions
The Outcome
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Tell us about a time your performance was lacking? How did you recognize it and what did
you do to resolve the situation?
The Situation
Your Actions
The Outcome
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Notes
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8. TECHNICAL QUESTIONS
Most airlines will ask technical questions during the interview. The types of questions will
range from Instrument Flight Rules, General Aeronautical Knowledge, Meteorology, and
Aerodynamics etc.
The best information available on these questions will be found in your own notes and manuals as well as forums or pilot
chat websites. As the range of technical questions is vast it is not the intention of this work booklet to provide answers
to all the questions but to provide you with guidance on how to structure your answers and what the interviewers are
looking for.
You will be asked questions on your current aircraft type, routes and destinations you serve. Be sure you study up on
these items.
For international airlines you will find they are unable to ask any Local Flight Rules and Regulation questions. Only
when you are applying for a local company will these questions be applicable.
For straight forward technical questions make sure you respect the interviewer and just answer the question.
For example:
Q what is the missed approach climb gradient?
A 2.5%
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Another example.
Q Why do some aircraft have winglets?
A Winglets reduce drag by preventing the mixing of the upper and lower airflow
This is a far better way to structure your answer and avoid confusion than,
A Some aircraft have winglets to reduce drag by preventing the mixing of the upper and lower airflow
therefore reducing wingtip vortices therefore reducing induced drag resulting in decreased fuel burn
and therefore increase range. Induced drag is at its highest during take off and landing BLAH, BLAH,
BLAH
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You may also be faced with technical questions that you feel are beyond your knowledge base. Such as Can you
explain to us what you know about the B777 fuel system?
As stated in Chapter 4 (tbc) use your knowledge from your ATPL study along with information from your current aircraft
and apply it here. If you think about it, your aircraft fuel system isnt that different to the B777, its probably just smaller
with less parts. However, I am sure it would still have tanks, pumps, vents, crossfeed, indications, warnings and
possibly transfer etc.
So dont be turned off by what initially may seem like and impossible question, take your time and have a go by
applying what you do know to the situation and question at hand.
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Example:
Q Describe to us the new Airbus A370 fuel system
A OK, I havent had the opportunity as yet to fly the A370 but I will give it a go. Being that the A370 is an
ultra long range twin engine aircraft capable of flying up to 19 hours I would imagine it would have a fuel
capacity in the vicinity of 160 tonnes (nineteen hours plus one hour of reserve at say eight tonnes an
hour), two wing tanks plus a centre wing tank minimum, at least one stage of fuel/ oil heat exchanger and
would be delivered pressurized to the engines, I would think it would have crossfeed and possibly transfer
between tanks.
Do Not:
Justify your lack of knowledge of the aircraft or systems
Be embarrassed to have a go.
Q You are flying your current aircraft our of your home base, after take off you suffer and engine failure.
You are unable to return to the field do to poor weather, what will you do, where will you go and why?
Again they are looking for your command potential and your overall thought process.
AVIATE
NAVIGATE
COMMUNICATE
Secure the aircraft, running through your normal emergency procedures
Navigate the aircraft to your selected airport. Explain your logic in the airport selection.
Terrain en-route and in the area, should you suffer further emergencies.
Familiarity with the airport, have you been there before.
A
ids at the airport considering weather, ILS or VOR approach, are you sure you will get in and avoid a missed
approach situation.
Passenger facilities on the ground, is it a port used by your company, will you have ground support.
Engineering facilities on the ground to fix the problem and minimise delay and cost to your company.
Communicate to ATC, your company if possible and your passengers.
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Notes
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Notes
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I would say that I was new in this position and that my understanding of the Standard Operating
Procedures was ... I would explain that I have a command to look forward to and that I would like to
keep a clean slate with work and not have any incidents on record, so whilst we fly together do you
mind if WE stick to the normal procedures.
If it was a blatant act of breaking rules and he continued to do it on the following sectors
I would advise him that if he didnt stop that I would be forced to submit a flight safety
report
The best way around awkward situations is to point out the basic facts and the company procedures and then put the
onus back on the Captain.
Always give someone the opportunity to own up to an incident before you go and report it to the chief pilot, always
inform the person you are going to report him or her.
Q You smell alcohol on the Captains breath, what are you going to do about it?
A I would take the Captain aside. I would explain that I can smell alcohol on his breath and that I
was concerned. I would strongly advise him to report unfit for duty, emphasising that if I can smell
the alcohol then someone else will too, a member of our cabin crew, an airport security officer, a
passenger. I would also ask him if his career was worth risking or would it actually be better to call in
sick explaining how I would easily handle the situation while the standby pilot was called out.
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Notes
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Dont ask any Questions that can be turned around and used against you.
Q Where do you see the A350s fitting into the organization?
A Why dont you tell us?
Q I have done some study on the A330 and I was wondering how the flight controls work in
Alternate Law?
A Why dont you tell us what you do know about the flight controls of the A330 and we can go from
there?
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Notes
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Notes
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NOTES
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By doing this your displaying to the observers your ability to lead the team from within, discussing issues in a group
environment rather than simply standing up and writing on a white board.
It also has the effect of moving the attention from yourself back to the group. Offer up the discussion to all in the group
exercise and share responsibilities.
Your ability to delegate will be noticed and is a great trait to show in this instance.
Beware of making assumptions i.e. in group exercises sometimes you are given a list of potential job seekers CVs to
chose from. Dont assume the gender of someone purely based on their name, many names can be used for either
male or female.
Tips!
Remember your manners
Pay attention, follow the directions and get involved.
DO build on something someone else has said.
Do include others in the conversation, be collaborative.
D
O make your points and if criticised, be prepared to stand up for yourself and diplomatically point out why you
believe your opinions are valid.
DO NOT interrupt someone when they are expressing their ideas.
DO NOT reject someone elses idea without a good reason.
DO NOT be overbearing.
DO NOT sit quietly while other candidates make their points without making your own.
DO help the group reach a conclusion in the time allocated.
EXAMPLES
1. Complete a jigsaw puzzle where other groups may have some of your pieces. Thereby looking at group to group
interaction.
2. Emergency situation problem solving, like being stranded in the south pole, what equipment would you take to walk
to base camp, choose only 20 items from the 40 items available?
3. Stranded in the desert, what equipment would you like to have if you could have 10 items, list them in order or
importance.
4. Job candidates and a position sought. Work out the best candidate for the position. Different information given on
different cards and you are not informed of these differences.
Your task as a group is to list the above 12 items in order of importance for your survival. List the uses for each. You
MUST come to agreement as a group.
Your task as a group is to list the above 12 items in order of importance for your survival. List the uses for each. You
MUST come to agreement as a group.
EXPLANATION
Mid-January is the coldest time of year in Northern Canada. The first problem the survivors face is the preservation of
body heat and the protection against its loss. This problem can be solved by building a fire, minimizing movement and
exertion, using as much insulation as possible, and constructing a shelter.
The participants have just crash-landed. Many individuals tend to overlook the enormous shock reaction this has on the
human body, and the deaths of the pilot and co-pilot increases the shock. Decision-making under such circumstances
is extremely difficult. Such a situation requires a strong emphasis on the use of reasoning for making decisions and for
reducing fear and panic. Shock would be shown in the survivors by feelings of helplessness, loneliness, hopelessness,
and fear. These feelings have brought about more fatalities than perhaps any other cause in survival situations.
Certainly the state of shock means the movement of the survivors should be at a minimum, and that an attempt to calm
them should be made.
Before taking off, a pilot has to file a flight plan which contains vital information such as the course, speed, estimated
time of arrival, type of aircraft, and number of passengers. Search-and-rescue operations begin shortly after the failure
of a plane to appear at its destination at the estimated time of arrival.
The 20 miles to the nearest town is a long walk under even ideal conditions, particularly if one is not used to walking
such distances. In this situation, the walk is even more difficult due to shock, snow, dress, and water barriers. It would
mean almost certain death from freezing and exhaustion. At temperatures of minus 25 to minus 40, the loss of body
heat through exertion is a very serious matter.
Once the survivors have found ways to keep warm, their next task is to attract the attention of search planes. Thus, all
the items the group has salvaged must be assessed for their value in signaling the groups whereabouts.
The ranking of the survivors items was made by Mark Wanvig, a former instructor in survival training for the
Reconnaissance School of the 101st Division of the U.S. Army. Mr. Wanvig currently conducts wilderness survival
training programs in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area. This survival simulation game is used in military training
classrooms.
RANKINGS
1. Cigarette lighter (without fluid)
The gravest danger facing the group is exposure to cold. The greatest need is for a source of warmth and the second
greatest need is for signaling devices. This makes building a fire the first order of business. Without matches, something
is needed to produce sparks, and even without fluid, a cigarette lighter can do that.
2. Ball of steel wool
To make a fire, the survivors need a means of catching he sparks made by the cigarette lighter. This is the best
substance for catching a spark and supporting a flame, even if the steel wool is a little wet.
3. Extra shirt and pants for each survivor
Besides adding warmth to the body, clothes can also be used for shelter, signaling, bedding, bandages, string (when
unraveled), and fuel for the fire.
4. Can of Crisco shortening
This has many uses. A mirror-like signaling device can be made from the lid. After shining the lid with steel wool, it will
reflect sunlight and generate 5 to 7 million candlepower. This is bright enough to be seen beyond the horizon. While this
could be limited somewhat by the trees, a member of the group could climb a tree and use the mirrored lid to signal
search planes. If they had no other means of signaling than this, they would have a better than 80% chance of being
rescued within the first day.
There are other uses for this item. It can be rubbed on exposed skin for protection against the cold. When melted into
an oil, the shortening is helpful as fuel. When soaked into a piece of cloth, melted shortening will act like a candle. The
empty can is useful in melting snow for drinking water. It is much safer to drink warmed water than to eat snow, since
warm water will help retain body heat. Water is important because dehydration will affect decision-making. The can is
also useful as a cup.
5. 20 x 20 foot piece of canvas
The cold makes shelter necessary, and canvas would protect against wind and snow (canvas is used in making tents).
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Spread on a frame made of trees, it could be used as a tent or a wind screen. It might also be used as a ground cover
to keep the survivors dry. Its shape, when contrasted with the surrounding terrain, makes it a signaling device.
6. Small ax
Survivors need a constant supply of wood in order to maintain the fire. The ax could be used for this as well as for
clearing a sheltered campsite, cutting tree branches for ground insulation, and constructing a frame for the canvas tent.
7. Family size chocolate bars (one per person)
Chocolate will provide some food energy. Since it contains mostly carbohydrates, it supplies the energy without making
digestive demands on the body.
8. Newspapers (one per person)
These are useful in starting a fire. They can also be used as insulation under clothing when rolled up and placed around
a persons arms and legs. A newspaper can also be used as a verbal signaling device when rolled up in a megaphoneshape. It could also provide reading material for recreation.
9. Loaded .45-caliber pistol
The pistol provides a sound-signaling device. (The international distress signal is 3 shots fired in rapid succession).
There have been numerous cases of survivors going undetected because they were too weak to make a loud enough
noise to attract attention. The butt of the pistol could be used as a hammer, and the powder from the shells will assist
in fire building. By placing a small bit of cloth in a cartridge emptied of its bullet, one can start a fire by firing the gun
at dry wood on the ground. The pistol also has some serious disadvantages. Anger, frustration, impatience, irritability,
and lapses of rationality may increase as the group awaits rescue. The availability of a lethal weapon is a danger to the
group under these conditions. Although a pistol could be used in hunting, it would take an expert marksman to kill an
animal with it. Then the animal would have to be transported to the crash site, which could prove difficult to impossible
depending on its size.
10. Quart of 100 proof whiskey
The only uses of whiskey are as an aid in fire building and as a fuel for a torch (made by soaking a piece of clothing in
the whiskey and attaching it to a tree branch). The empty bottle could be used for storing water. The danger of whiskey
is that someone might drink it, thinking it would bring warmth. Alcohol takes on the temperature it is exposed to, and a
drink of minus 30 degrees ahrenheit whiskey would freeze a persons esophagus and stomach. Alcohol also dilates the
blood vessels in the skin, resulting in chilled blood belong carried back to the heart, resulting in a rapid loss of body
heat. Thus, a drunk person is more likely to get hypothermia than a sober person is.
11. Compass
Because a compass might encourage someone to try to walk to the nearest town, it is a dangerous item. Its only
redeeming feature is that it could be used as a reflector of sunlight (due to its glass top).
12. Sectional air map made of plastic
This is also among the least desirable of the items because it will encourage individuals to try to walk to the nearest
town. Its only useful feature is as a ground cover to keep someone dry.
How to score
Each team should list its top 5 choices in order prior to seeing the answer sheet. To award points, look at the ranking
numbers on this answer sheet. Award points to each teams top choices according to the numbers here. For example,
the map would earn 12 points, while the steel wool would earn 2 points. Lowest score wins (and survives).
NOTES
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5. Your attributes;
Explain what you have to offer the company and the position you are going for. Here you must do your homework on the
company and the position being sought. You must match your strengths to the company and what they represent in the
industry.
For example if it is for a VIP role on a private Jet, you would highlight your professionalism, maturity, respect for privacy
etc.
Or/ If it was for a remote pilot basing for Single Engine charter and mail runs, you would have to highlight your ability to
make command decisions, work independently, responsible, reliable etc.
I will bring to the position dedication, reliability and a willingness to learn and adapt to the role of XXX.I believe that my
maturity and passion
My diverse aviation career has demanded and developed numerous attributes, including leadership, teamwork and
skills in customer relations.
During my career I have always been well respected by both my colleagues and employers. I have taken pride in my
professionalism and have developed and honed good interpersonal communication skills.
Aside from my flying qualifications I take pride in keeping a professional manner. I pay attention to detail, work well in a
team environment and know the importance of safety and customers coming first.
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Finally
I look forward to an interview with you soon.
6. The Closing
It is a formal letter so you must end it with Yours Sincerely or Kind Regards.
Leave a gap for your signature and then your name printed below. Sign in blue if possible.
Print below your name Resume enclosed.
NOTES
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NOTES
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NOTES
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NOTES
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