A This is a good time to start your aviation career as there is a shortage of pilots worldwide and job opportunities are available, in both Europe and North America.

I am aware that the airlines in Europe are looking for experienced pilots with type ratings on aircrafts such as Boeing 737's and Airbus A320's. To be considered for hire in Europe as a "low-time pilot", (those just graduating from flight school) you must first need to acquire a type-rating, adding significantly to your training cost.

North America has a significant number of charter operators and therefore can offer opportunities to gain the flight experience required for the major airlines without the expense of a type-rating.

The cost of training in Europe is more expensive than it is in North America and more specifically in Canada, especially taking living costs into account. In regard to the quality of training, I can only comment that the training I experienced in Canada was exemplary and is unique as it was adapted from the Royal Canadian Air Force program, known internationally for its high standards in training.

Diarmuid O'Riordan course director PRI