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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Filter:

Do I need an understanding of the Chinese language to work at CSWAFC?

No, the medium of instruction is English, both on the ground and in flight.

Does CSWAFC train students other than those sponsored by China Southern Airlines?

No, not at this time.

Does training Chinese pilots benefit the economy of Western Australia?

Since CSWAFC began operations in 1993, we have trained more than 2,000 commercial pilots who have graduated and returned to be employed by China Southern Airlines. CSWAFC has received more than $250 million in student fees from China and this has been circulated into the local WA economy, mainly in the form of wages to WA staff, payroll taxes paid to WA State and supporting local businesses for the provision of goods and services.

For the small regional town of Merredin where we own and operate the airport, the employment opportunities and contracting of local services directly helps to drive the town’s local economy and this is particularly valued by the residents.

We are effectively exporting our flight training skills and WA’s clear blue skies which subsequently is helping to fuel the WA economy.

How is safety maintained?

CSWAFC utilises a Safety Management System (SMS) which allows the Safety Department to manage the range of activities which aim to enhance the safety of the operations. Safety is advocated by the college as everyone’s responsibility and we encourage everyone to be on the lookout of any hazardous conditions. The backbone of the SMS is the reporting of these hazards. These reports are then submitted into the SMS management tool and the processes following that include, investigations to find the root cause, risk assessments and mitigation. Once the safety team has identified the root cause, solutions to mitigate the risks are forwarded to the Flight Operations Department as recommendations.

What career development opportunities does CSWAFC offer?

This depends on the job role you are applying for and the structure within that department. We work with you to develop a plan that helps you achieve your career goals in line with the needs of the business.

What is the recruitment process?

This depends on the job role being applied for. All roles are subject to shortlisting for telephone interviews and further shortlisting for face to face interviews.

The Instructor interview process also consists of a brief delivery, flight test and aptitude testing followed by reference checks.

Final decisions are then made on the successful candidates for the positions available.

There are no vacancies listed. When will you be recruiting again?

It is difficult to give exact timeframes as this is based on the needs of the business. We encourage you to register your interest under the Careers section of our site.

What are the minimum requirements to work at CSWAFC as a flight instructor?

Part 142 activities:

  1. commercial pilot licence (CPL)
  2. valid class 2 medical certificate
  3. aircraft category, class ratings and design feature endorsements:
    1. aeroplane category rating
    2. single-engine class rating
    3. manual propeller pitch control (MPPC)
  4. pilot instructor rating with the follow training endorsements:
    1. Grade 3 (aeroplane);
    2. design feature (DF)
    3. night VFR (NVFR) rating

Part 141 activities:

  1. commercial pilot licence (CPL)
  2. valid class 2 medical certificate
  3. aircraft category, class ratings and design feature endorsements:
    1. aeroplane category rating
    2. multi-engine class rating
    3. manual propeller pitch control (MPPC)
    4. retractable undercarriage (RU)
  4. pilot instructor rating with the follow training endorsements:
    1. Grade 2 (aeroplane)
    2. design feature (DF);
    3. class rating (multi-engine)
    4. instrument rating
  5. instrument rating (IR) with the following instrument endorsements:
    1. multi-engine aeroplane
    2. IAP 2D
    3. IAP 3D

As an instructor, how much flying time per month can I expect?

It is expected that on average every instructor will be flying approximately 60hrs per month.

Will my progression through CSWAFC as an instructor culminate in the experience I need to apply for an airline job or similar?

Progression through the company is regarded as being quite rapid. Company sponsored Instructor Rating upgrades are generally conducted once the qualification requirements have been met and transition to Multi-engine instructing is encouraged as soon as possible. Consequently, our instructors are generally considered highly desirable by many airlines.

Are the students at CSWAFC qualified to a standard in English language communication?

Students arrive at CSWAFC with an English standard which allows them to gain a Visa to enter Australia. They will have studied some Aviation English at University in China, and will continue to study Aviation English in order to attain a Level 4 ICAO Aviation English Language Proficiency before their flight training commences in Australia. CSWAFC has an English Training Department which not only trains students for the AELP, but also provides remedial English training if an instructor feels this is necessary for safety reasons.

Do I need a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment to be an instructor at CSWAFC?

The following is required:

  • Principles & Methods of Instruction, or
  • Certificate IV in Training & Assessment, or
  • Tertiary qualification in teaching.

Can I hire CSWAFC aircraft for my own purposes at a reduced rate?

You can hire aircraft at reduced rates subject to availability and restrictions. In addition, instructing staff are also entitled to six hours per year of professional development flights.

However, you are not permitted to carry non-company personnel.

Can I fly for, or instruct for other companies whilst working at CSWAFC as an instructor?

At this stage, CSWAFC only employs full-time flight instructors. As such, you will not be permitted to work for other companies.

Will my salary at CSWAFC be reviewed annually?

Yes, your salary at the College will be reviewed annually.

Are instructor uniforms supplied by CSWAFC?

CSWAFC provides a Uniform Allowance as per the Air Pilots Award for Instructors to purchase what they require. Only uniform specified in CSWAFC’s Professional Appearance Uniform and Grooming Policy is permitted to be worn.

Do I need my own laptop to work at CSWAFC as an instructor?

No, all required technology is provided by CSWAFC.

What grade of instructor are you looking for?

We are currently looking for all Instructor grades.

I am a New Zealand citizen with a New Zealand pilot licence. Can I work for CSWAFC?

NZ licence holders are able to work in Australia via the Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (TTMRA). The cost of this conversion would be bourne by the prospective instructor.

Will I have to teach aviation theory classes?

Yes, all instructors are required to teach aviation theory as part of their role.

Does CSWAFC sponsor visa applications for potential instructors?

CSWAFC does not sponsor visas for prospective flight instructors at this time.

How good does my English have to be to train in Australia?

You will have to pass the Aviation English Language Proficiency (AELP) test to an ICAO Level 4 standard prior to commencement of your flight training.

What help will I get to improve my English?

You will have access to a dedicated English as a Second Language (ESL) department that specializes in teaching, helping, and assisting non-native English speakers.

Being the international language in the aviation industry, you will need to speak English at all times whilst on campus.

Do people speak Chinese in Australia?

Yes, many people speak Chinese. Australia is a multi-cultural country with a lot of immigrants, both from China, and around the world.

There is a vibrant Chinese community in Perth that celebrates their festivals and traditions.

Do I have to learn Aviation English?

You will have to pass the Aviation English Language Proficiency (AELP) test to an ICAO Level 4 standard prior to commencement of your flight training.

All flight and ground training is conducted in English.

What tests do I have to do?

During the course of training, you will need to pass a medical (physical examination), an English assessment as well as a Commercial Pilot License and Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating flight and theory test.

Ground training will consist of sixteen theory examinations over the 65 week course.

How long is my training in Australia?

You should complete your training within 65 weeks.

How much flying will I do?

The course of training consists of 241 flight hours.

Can I use my pilot qualifications in China?

After graduating from CSWAFC, your Australian qualifications will need to be converted to CAAC qualifications.

What tests do I have to do?

TBD

Does food cost the same in Australia as in China?

The cost of food is different, with some food being as cheap while others being more expensive than China. Eating at local Chinese restaurants is generally more expensive than in China.

As the accommodation provided by the College is fully catered, students are not expected to purchase their own food for cooking. Cooking in the student rooms is not permitted.

Can I buy Chinese groceries in Australia?

Yes, there are Chinese and Asian supermarkets here as well as local ones that sell Asian groceries.

However, students are not permitted to cook in their rooms and so students should not need to buy Chinese food from supermarkets. Students are catered for by the College providing three meals a day prepared in full Chinese style.

Is there a train/bus/subway travel system in Australia?

Yes, the closest bus stop is a 10 minute or 800m walk from the Jandakot campus. From there, it is a 20min ride to the closest train station which goes directly to the city centre.

How do I get a SIM card?

You can easily get a SIM card from any of the big supermarkets as well as directly from Vodafone or Telstra retail stores.

Our Student Services department will arrange this for you after your arrival.

How can I change money to Australian dollars?

You can exchange your Chinese RMB for Australian dollars at any bank in Australia. However, the exchange rate changes daily. It is recommended that you exchange some RMB in China before coming to Australia.

Can I travel to other parts of Australia easily?

It is very easy to travel around Australia. However, you are not permitted to stay overnight elsewhere or travel away from the College during your training period.

Where can I see Australian native animals?

The three most common places to see the native wildlife is at the Perth Zoo, Caversham Wildlife Park, or at Whiteman Park.

More locally, wild kangaroos can often be seen at dusk at the John Connell Reserve, Beasley Road, Leeming. This is 5 km away from the Jandakot Airport Campus and can be reached by bus (#515 from Karel Avenue) in less than 20 minutes. Alternatively, John Connell Reserve can be reached by a 40 min walk from the College.

What exercise and fitness facilities will I have access to?

You can use the fitness equipment which is located in the Jandakot student dormitory. Alternatively, there are a number of sporting facilities located close to Jandakot Airport.

In Merredin, you will have access to the gym, a basketball court, and a swimming pool.

Am I allowed to drive a car/motorbike during my training in Australia?

No, this is strictly prohibited during your training.

What medical services are available to students?

Medical insurance is provided as part of your training visa. This insurance covers the cost of any medical treatment that may be required during your time studying with the College

If you are unwell, please inform the Student Services Officer on duty who will take you to see a doctor/dentist.

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CSWAFC China Southern West
Australian Flying College
  • Company
    • Message from the CEO
    • About us
    • Contact us
    • Team
    • Safety
    • Jandakot Campus
    • Merredin Campus
    • Aircraft Maintenance
    • Perth Area and Surrounds
  • Careers
    • Why choose us?
    • Life as an instructor
    • Instructor Development Program
    • Benefits
    • Testimonials
    • Current Vacancies
    • Register your interest
  • Students
    • Life as a Student
    • Graduate Testimonials
    • Entry Requirements
    • Integrated Commercial Pilot Licence
    • Multi-Engine Class Rating
    • Instrument Rating
    • Ground Training
  • Fleet
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    • Robin 2160
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