What is the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program?
The Qantas Cadet Pilot Program is an outstanding career opportunity designed to equip successful graduates with the skills, qualifications and experience required for possible future entry into Qantas as a Second Officer. There are several program options available, dependent on the candidate's previous flying experience, career goals, personal preferences and individual circumstances. Qantas' assessment of a candidate's suitability for a particular program is also a factor in the outcome.
What are the time frames for the 2009 Cadet Pilot Program?
Please see the Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule which sets out all relevant dates relating to the range of options available under the program.
If I am accepted as a Qantas Cadet, does that mean I am a Qantas employee?
Cadet Pilots are not employees of Qantas and Qantas gives no guarantee or commitment of future employment at any time after completion of the training program.
What are the components of the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program?
The Qantas Cadet Pilot Program is comprised of two phases:
- An education and training phase including theory and flight training at a participating University and Flight Training Organisation (FTO).
- A post-training phase involving compulsory flying employment experience under the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP).
What Phase One training options are available under the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program?
There are several Phase One training options for candidates to consider under the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program. Individual choice will vary depending upon the candidate's previous flying experience, career goals, personal preferences and individual circumstances. The Phase One training options are as follows:
Commercial
Designed for applicants who have completed or are about to complete a Commercial Pilot (Aeroplane) Licence. Commercial Cadets will complete an abridged full-time theory and flight training course of approximately 6 months at a participating Flight Training Organisation. This is a self-funded Program with all training costs being the responsibility of the Cadet.
Qantas Swinburne Associate Degree
Designed for applicants with little or no flying experience who wish to gain an academic qualification in a time effective way in addition to all theory and flight training. Cadets will complete Phase One of the program with Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Victoria, undertaking an Associate Degree of Aviation.
This is a 1.5 year program, incorporating full-time academic studies, theory, and flight training at a participating Flight Training Organisation (i.e. General Flying Services (GFS) at Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne). Cadets may wish to use the Federal Government's FEE-HELP Scheme to offset a large portion of the upfront costs of the Associate Degree. This includes but is not limited to the cost of flight training.
Qantas Swinburne Bachelor Degree and Graduate Certificate
Designed for applicants with little or no flying experience who wish to gain a Bachelor Degree in addition to all theory and flight training. Cadets will complete Phase One of the program with Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Victoria, undertaking a Bachelor of Aviation and a Graduate Certificate of Aviation (Piloting) (subject to accreditation).
This is a three year program incorporating flight training and theory at a participating Flight Training Organisation(i.e. General Flying Services (GFS) at Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne). as well as academic studies in Aviation Human Factors, Air Transportation Management and Aviation Technology. Graduates from this program will have, in addition to their flying qualifications, a broader Aviation education that will prepare them for possible future management roles within the aviation industry.
Cadets may wish to use the Federal Government's HECS-HELP Scheme to offset a large portion of the academic components of the Degree. In addition, cadets may wish to use the Federal Government's FEE-HELP Scheme to offset a large portion of the upfront costs of the Graduate Certificate. (subject to accreditation).
Qantas Griffith Bachelor's Degree and Graduate Diploma
Designed for applicants with little or no flying experience who wish to gain a Bachelor Degree and Graduate Diploma qualifications in addition to all theory and flight training. Cadets will complete Phase One of the Program with Griffith University in Brisbane, Queensland, undertaking a Bachelor of Aviation and a Graduate Diploma of Flight Management.
Cadets may wish to use the Federal Government's HECS-HELP Scheme to offset a large portion of the upfront costs of the Degree. In addition, they may wish to use the Federal Government's FEE-HELP Scheme to offset a large portion of the upfront costs of the Graduate Diploma. This includes but is not limited to the cost of flight training.
More detailed information on the above Programs can be found throughout this document and in the Supplementary Information provided on this website.
What is the relationship between Qantas and the participating Flight Training Organisations?
Participating Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) are approved by Qantas (and the Universities where applicable) as meeting the requirements to deliver the relevant components of the training phase of the program. Qantas will monitor each Cadet's performance throughout the training phase and provide input to the FTO where appropriate, however the airline is not directly involved in delivery of the training or in payment for the training.
For Commercial Cadets, all relevant contracts are between the Cadet and the Flight Training Organisation concerned. For University Cadets, all relevant contracts are between the Cadet, the Universities and the Flight Training Organisation concerned.
What is the relationship between Qantas and the Universities?
Whilst maintaining their individual identities, Qantas and the Universities will work together with the mutual goal of developing highly qualified pilots for the Airline industry. The Universities are responsible for administering the academic components of the courses. Meanwhile, Qantas will provide support and assistance to the program to ensure that the program meets the industry needs. Qantas will monitor each Cadet's performance throughout Phase One, during the Bachelor's Degree, Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate (subject to accreditation) and Associate Degree as applicable.
How long is Phase One of the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program?
Phase One differs in length according to the Program option undertaken.
- Commercial Cadets will complete Phase One approximately 6 months after commencement.
- Associate Degree Cadets will complete Phase One approximately 1.5 years after commencement.
- Bachelor's Degree and Graduate Certificate (Victoria) will complete Phase One approximately 3 years after commencement.
- Bachelor's Degree Graduate Diploma Cadets (Queensland) will complete Phase One approximately 1.5 years after commencement as a Cadet.
Further detail on the above time frames can be found in the Supplementary Information
Who decides upon which option of the Program I apply for?
Candidates can submit their preferences upon application. The option that a candidate chooses to apply for will not affect the overall competitiveness of their application.
Qantas reserves the right to allocate a candidate to a particular program for consideration. This decision could be based upon current flying qualifications or Qantas' assessment of a candidate's suitability for a particular program. Where possible, applicants will be advised of their designated program before any bookings for selection assessments are made. However, this notification could occur at any point in time during the selection process, up to and including the offer of a position on the Program. This means that some candidates may be offered a position on a program that may not have been their first preference. If desired, candidates may elect to withdraw their application at that point.
If a candidate does not meet the minimum requirements for application as a Bachelor Degree Cadet, they may be considered as an Associate Degree Cadet and vice versa.
Can I get credit or recognition for my previous flight training?
Please see the Supplementary Information on this website relating to each of the program options available.
What Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) are used for Qantas Cadet training?
The FTOs approved to participate in the Cadet Pilot Program are reassessed each year. Participating FTOs for the 2009 Program are General Flying Services (GFS) in Moorabbin, Melbourne who will deliver the Qantas Swinburne Programs, Airline Academy of Australia (AAA) in Archerfield, Brisbane who will deliver the Qantas Griffith Program and Flight Training Adelaide (FTA), Parafield who will deliver the Commercial Programs.
What happens after completing Phase One of the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program?
If you successfully complete the Phase One syllabus, Qantas will then discuss with you the next phase of the program. The next phase may include:
- Compulsory flying employment experience for two years under the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP), with positions secured by Qantas;
- Some other activity or requirement.
What is the objective of the compulsory Cadet Industry Placement Program?
The Qantas Cadet Pilot Program has a proven record of providing high quality pilots to Qantas over many decades. The strengths of the current program are a rigorous selection process to identify the highest quality candidates and provision of these candidates with the best available training.
The aim of the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP) is to further enhance the benefits of the Cadet program by providing successful graduates from Phase One with the opportunity to further develop their skills and experience and their ability to succeed within the Qantas training and checking system.
Where will Cadets be employed during the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP)?
CIPP employment will be arranged by Qantas but will not necessarily be with the Qantas Group and may include Regular Public Transport, Charter, Instructional, Regional Airline or other flying. Employment locations may include regional or city areas throughout Australia or the Asia Pacific region.
Who decides which Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP) job a Cadet will be offered?
Qantas will decide the allocation of available CIPP employment positions to eligible Cadets. Opportunities available to Cadets will be discussed with each Cadet when approaching Phase One Graduation.
When will flying employment commence under the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP)?
It is intended that CIPP employment will commence as soon as practicable after completion of the training phase of the Cadet program. Because of the involvement of multiple aviation employers in the CIPP and short term fluctuations in their operational needs, there may be a short delay between graduation from Phase One and commencement of employment. Cadets from the same Flight Training Organisation may also commence their CIPP employment at slightly different times.
How long is the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP) employment phase?
The Cadet would normally remain with the CIPP employer for a set period of two years from the time the Cadet checks to commercial operations. CIPP initial training takes approximately 4-6 weeks. During the CIPP, Cadet's will be subject to the conditions of employment of their respective CIPP employers.
Qantas and the CIPP employer involved shall determine a specific release date based on the operational needs of both Qantas and the CIPP employer.
What happens after the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP)?
Cadets who successfully complete the CIPP may be considered for employment as a pilot at Qantas. Employment opportunities with Qantas will be based on a Cadet's individual performance throughout Phase One and Two of the Program and on Qantas' pilot recruitment requirements at the time of completion of the CIPP.
Cadets who complete the CIPP would not be required to re-sit any of the normal Direct Entry assessments in order to be considered for employment.
If it is the case that Qantas is not employing at the time of successful completion of the CIPP, employment at Qantas may be delayed until a position is available. Qantas employment conditions would only commence when employment with Qantas Airways commenced. That is, the CIPP does not count for service or the accrual of any benefits at Qantas.
If you do not successfully complete the CIPP, employment opportunities at Qantas would be reviewed. In such cases Qantas reserves the right to not offer you employment at Qantas.
Will Qantas be monitoring my performance whilst I am flying under the CIPP?
During the CIPP the performance of Cadets will continue to be monitored by Qantas and feedback will be given to the Cadet.
Qantas will require permission from the Cadet to access their employment records during the CIPP. Access by Qantas to these records is a precondition of participating in the CIPP. Subject to agreement by the CIPP employer Qantas may also request the opportunity to observe the Cadet once a year on commercial operations. Cadets must also meet all normal performance, training and checking standards applicable to pilots of the CIPP employer.
What costs will I incur as part of the Cadet Industry Placement Program (CIPP)?
Qantas will provide air travel to and from the Cadet's place of residence and his or her place of employment under the CIPP at the start and end of the period of employment. All other relocation expenses will be the Cadet's own responsibility.
The Cadet will also be required to pay an up-front contribution of approximately A$10,000 towards the initial aircraft endorsement or other required qualification. This payment can be funded through a Qantas Staff Credit Union (QSCU) line of credit. This payment is required to help offset the costs associated with the Cadet's initial endorsement and also ensures the CIPP employer is not disadvantaged in the event that any additional training above the norm is required due to the Cadet's lower experience level.
Can Qantas help me organise funding for the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program?
Please see the Supplementary Information on this website in relation to Qantas Credit Union access, HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP.
Does Qantas have a sponsorship or scholarship program this year?
No. Qantas is unable to offer sponsorships or scholarships for the 2009 Cadet Pilot Program. However, financial assistance may be provided through Qantas Credit Union access, HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP. Please see the Supplementary Information for more detail.
Am I eligible to apply - What are the minimum requirements?
Please refer to the Cadet Pilot Minimum Criteria for a list of the minimum requirements for application and the documents that will be required at a later stage to support the information provided on the application form.
Qantas will be unable to process your application if you do not meet all of the minimum criteria or if the application form is not completed correctly.
Note: If you do not meet all of the minimum criteria or if the requested documentation is not provided then Qantas will be unable to process your application.
Are there any maximum limitations?
No. If you hold or have held an Instrument Rating, you are eligible to apply for the Program. However, candidates who hold or have held an Instrument Rating will be required to complete the full Instrument flying training syllabus during Phase One of the Program.
Completion of some or all of the Air Transport Pilot (Aeroplane) Licence or Instrument Rating theory subjects will not disadvantage you in the selection process.
Is there an age restriction in applying for the Cadet Program?
All applicants must be age 17 or greater as at 1 October, 2008. There is no maximum age limit.
Is there a height restriction?
There are no minimum or maximum height restrictions.
What is an Aviation Reference Number (ARN) and how do I obtain one?
The application form to apply for an ARN can be found at flying schools CASA Area Offices or on the CASA website. The form should be completed and submitted to your local CASA Area This can be done via fax, post or be hand delivered, alternatively you can scan and email these to CASA at clarc@casa.gov.au. Depending on the method of application, it can take up to 10 days to receive an ARN. All ARN applicants should ensure a copy of appropriate identification is submitted with the application, with details noted on the ARN application form.
Please note: An Aviation Reference Number is required in order to submit a Cadet Pilot Program application.
What is a CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate?
In order to obtain a Class 1 Medical you will need to undertake a medical examination, an audiogram, a blood test, an ECG and an ophthalmic report. These tests require an appointment with a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME) and a Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO) or Designated Aviation Eye Examiner (DAEE).
For information on CASA Class 1 Medicals and how they are issued, you should refer to pages 31 to 34 of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Flight Crew Licensing Procedures document located on the CASA website.
Information on the specific requirements can be found in the Designated Aviation Medical Examiner's Handbook. A list of approved DAMEs, DAOs and DAEE can be found on the CASA website.
Do I need a CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate to apply for the Cadet Pilot Program?
No. Holding a CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate is no longer part of the minimum criteria to apply. It is however a requirement to be accepted as a Cadet. Candidates who do not currently hold a CASA Class 1 Medical should be aware of this requirement and consider undertaking a CASA Class 1 Medical examination before applying or whilst undertaking the application process. It is worthwhile knowing early if you are unable to hold a CASA Class 1 Medical in order for you to avoid the costs associated with the selection process.
Those who do not hold a CASA Class 1 Medical will undertake the necessary Class 1 assessments during the Occupational Health Assessment (OHA). The OHA will be undertaken only by those candidates who are competitive to move to Stage 3 in the recruitment process, as described in the Selection Process Briefing.
How do I obtain a CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate if I wish to obtain one early?
In order to obtain a CASA Class 1 Medical, you must apply for and receive an Aviation Reference Number (ARN) prior to making appointments with a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME), Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO) or Designated Aviation Eye Examiner (DAEE).
Considerable delay can occur when making appointments with some specialists. Following completion of the required medical examinations, CASA will issue you with a Class 1 Medical Certificate. Issue of this certificate can take up to 6 weeks.
Cadets will undertake an Australian Commercial Pilot (Aeroplane) Licence during the Cadet Pilot Program, therefore a CASA Class 2 Medical will not be acceptable.
How can I obtain a Class 1 Medical if I am living overseas?
The list of approved Designated Aviation Medical Examiner's (DAMEs), Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist's (DAOs) and Designated Aviation Eye Examiner's (DAEEs) found on the CASA website provides detail for examiners in Australia and overseas.
What is a Prerequisite Report?
A Prerequisite report is a document required by any applicant who has attempted a CASA theory examination. This report is issued by CASA and shows all attempts at CASA theory examinations.
You may need a Prerequisite Report if Qantas requests one from you as supporting documentation. You can obtain this report by contacting CASA on 131 757. Please note CASA charges a fee for this report. At the time of publishing, the cost of the prerequisite report was $34.
What is involved in the Cadet selection process?
Cadet applicants will be required to undergo a multi-stage selection process including a Skills Assessment, a Psychometric Assessment, a Panel Interview, an Occupational Health Assessment, a Criminal History, Politically Motivated Violence and Citizenship Check and reference checks. Commercial Program Cadet applicants will also be required to complete a Cadet Flight Test to the standard set by Qantas. A Qantas appointed testing officer will conduct this test. On rare occasions Qantas may also require Commercial Program Cadet applicants to undergo a Flight Screening process at a nominated Flight Training Organisation. Further details of the selection assessments can be found in the Cadet Selection Process Briefing Sheet.
Candidates should take particular note of the following cut off dates in order to adequately prepare for various selection assessments.
When will selection assessments take place?
The Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule sets out all relevant dates relating to selection assessments.
Candidates should take particular note of the cut off dates in order to adequately prepare for each assessment.
If I meet the minimum criteria will I be offered the chance to attempt the selection assessment?
Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee you the chance to attempt the selection assessments. Appointments to attempt the selection assessments will only be offered to the most competitive applicants. For the 2009 Cadet Program this opportunity was offered to approximately half of those applicants who met the minimum criteria.
Are there expenses involved in participating in the Cadet selection process?
Yes. Listed below is a general guide to the expenses you could incur during the selection process. These expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
- Psychometric Assessment - A$195
- Travel to and from Sydney - up to 2 return trips
- Accommodation in Sydney, if required
- Occupational Health Assessment - A$150
- Completion of blood test as part of the Occupation Health Assessement - at your own expense, costs vary
- Medical Examination by a CASA Designated Aviation Medical Examiner, for the issue of a Class 1 Medical Certificate
- Eye examination from a CASA Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist or a Designated Aviation Eye Examiner
- CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate Processing Fee - A$130
- OPG mouth X-ray from a dentist
- Criminal History Check and AUSCHECK Clearance - A$104.50
- Cadet Flight Test (Commercial Program Cadets ONLY) - aircraft hire, examiner's fee, and the cost of any refresher training the applicant may elect to do.
- Cadet Flight Screening Program (Commercial Program Cadets ONLY). If further evaluation is required following the Cadet Flight Test, Qantas may request that a candidate complete a Flight Screening Program at a nominated Flight Training Organisation. All costs of this program are the responsibility of the applicant.
- CASA Prerequisite Report (if required) - A$34
Note: Please note: The fees for the Psychometric Assessment, Occupational Health Assessment and Criminal History Check and AUSCHECK Clearance represent external fees imposed upon Qantas for each candidate who undertakes the assessments. Recovering this fee from the candidate allows Qantas to offer a greater number of candidates the opportunity to attempt the assessments.
How do I apply?
To apply for the 2009 Cadet Pilot Program go to the online Cadet Application form.
Those applying for the Bachelor's Degree Graduate Diploma Program (Queensland) should review the Supplementary Information regarding the application process.
Can I submit my application now?
The Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule outlines all relevant dates relating to the application acceptance, selection process and course commencement for each Program available.
If you are anticipating completion of a qualification or other achievement that you feel would enhance your application, we request that you do not delay submission awaiting this outcome. Instead we request that you submit your application at the earliest opportunity and include a statement of your intentions and expectations with regards to the qualification or achievement.
What is the closing date for submitting my application?
Please see the Cadet Pilot Program Selection Schedule which sets out all relevant dates relating to open and close dates.
If I applied for the Cadet Program in previous years, can I apply again?
Yes, previous applicants may apply for the 2009 Cadet Pilot Program. Candidates should be aware that previous assessment results will be taken into consideration when determining the competitiveness of an application.
What if I completed my secondary education qualifications overseas?
Candidates with overseas secondary education qualifications who believe their course of study may be equivalent to the NSW Year 12 Higher School Certificate (HSC) English and Mathematics may be asked by Qantas to obtain a Statement of Equivalence from the NSW Board of Studies.
If supporting documentation is requested by Qantas during the selection process, candidates should provide a copy of both the Statement of Equivalence and their overseas education certificate. Please note, candidates with secondary education qualifications from Australia, New Zealand, England, South Africa or who have an International Baccalaureate may not be required to provide a Statement of Equivalence.
How competitive is the Cadet selection process?
The Qantas Cadet Pilot Program is highly competitive and failure to be selected does not necessarily mean an applicant cannot become a competent pilot and a successful Qantas Cadet or Direct Entry applicant at some future date. The most competitive candidates will be those who demonstrate skills and personal competencies which best match those required to be an airline pilot and who have an orientation and motivation towards a flying career.
If I am not selected for the Cadet Program, can I apply to Qantas as a Direct Entry Pilot?
Yes. Once you have gained the minimum criteria for a Direct Entry pilot, we would be happy to receive your application. The Cadet selection process is highly competitive, and failure to be selected does not necessarily mean that you do not have the potential to become a competent pilot and a successful direct entry applicant at some future date
If my application is unsuccessful, can I receive guidance on my future aviation career?
Corporate policy does not allow Qantas to provide career guidance to current or future candidates other than the information providec on this website. Useful information can be obtained from the Qantas Pilot Career Information Booklet, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority website and Flight Training Organisations alike.
If I complete my training at a Qantas approved FTO, would I be recognised as a Cadet graduate?
No. You must apply to the Qantas Cadet Pilot Program and be accepted as a Qantas Cadet prior to commencing your training. Alternatively, you must achieve the Direct Entry Pilot Minimum Criteria and apply as a Direct Entry Pilot.
