Hi guys, I figured I can share my experience in getting my ratings in Europe and the job outlook in Central and Eastern Europe. The pay levels here vary from Euro 25K for a junior FO to 70K for the experienced captains.
At the moment some airlines in the region are actually hiring junior FO's with the minimum 200 hours for an A320. The pay is really low since the Type rating is deducted from the salary for the first 20 months, but there aren't many other ways a pilot with 200 hours can get inside an A320.
The hot name in this part of the world is Wizz Air. They are expanding and hiring most of the pilots now. The annual hours flown there are at the legal maximum and the experience builds up at the best possible rate.
I am 30 now and have bought a share in an aircraft to build the necessary hours. Before I decided to go for a career I have designed and built a small aircraft and now have two so I am certain I will love the job despite the many uncertainties.
So far I have paid around Euro 12K and have a total of 110 hours, that includes the share in the Czech Vivat L-13. It will take another 20K to get the IR and the ME ratings.
I am continuing with private hour building and hopefully will be ready for the Commercial (CPL) check ride by the end of the summer.
Mr Wien, you're doing a great job of sharing the emotion of flight and I greatly appreciate the time you put into this. Thank you.

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