Hi Everyone...
Ok firstly I am not a pilot, but I have done loads and loads of research into all the different oppurtunities available in SA (and in other parts of the world) so I can only share with you what I have found out - hope it helps in some way!!! I want to fly more than anything but up to now it just has not worked out - my family just cant afford it and oppurtunities is SA are very very few and far between! but I will get there oneday and so will all of you - you all seem to have the determination so never give up!
BrokenArrow - I know this is SAAF forum so I don't want to slag off the SAAF, but from what I have heard from many people is that the state of the SAAF is not so good. for many people SAAF is the only way that they will get to fly, and you will be flying the most awesome aircraft, you just won't be flying as many hours! I have thought about it for a long time, and I suppose at the end of the day you will never know until you apply - they might say yes, and they might say no. then again you can say yes or no if they ask you - at the end of the day you must look at the bigger picture.
As Gripen says don't rule out private sector! But still go for it - you never know!
Raeflyer - I like your thinking - its good to make a plan! Once again apply for the SAAF - if it is your only option go for it. Also to find a sponsor these days is very very very tough. people just do not have R250 000 to hand out thesedays - Im not trying to be negative about your plans but just trying to be realistic. Gripen is right about Airline Cadet programmes - many dont want you to have hours because they want to train you to their standards from afresh. BA/Comair SA had Cadet programme where they wanted a PPL with 100 hours - but this was to show that you had the passion and determination to fly.
As far as overseas Airforces (especially RAF and RN and Irish Airforce) you cannot apply as a pilot if you are not a british passport holder, and if you have a link to ancesteral visa, or any other sort of leave to remain or right to work, you have to have lived in the UK for a certain number of years - I tried to get in there but could not because im a South African through and through. The aviation industry is so massive over there - I am hoping to go back and to work there and fly - it is much cheaper if you are earning pounds!
now a question for you glider pilots - I have been thinking of it for a while and was just wondering if one of you could shed some light on a glider licence - how many hours, how much it costs, etc. that would be so great!
well guys hoped that helped, but If I had to say everything I have found out I would be typing for days, so if you have any other questions feel free to ask!