We are pleased to have Camilo Peris, a Spanish A330 Captain, to continue the “Dynamic Asia” campaign with his story. Camilo has worked in Europe for more than 15 years as a captain, TRI and TRE before coming to China. To advance his career and regain more personal free-time, he came to China for the other possibilities that European Airline companies might not able to provide for him. He took an advantage of the transitional opportunity and commuting programs that Chinese aviation companies offer and his lifestyle has changed since then.
----- Conversation between APAS and Captain Camilo-----
1. When do you start to work in China? Where did you work before working in China? What was your position before? What make you move to China?
I arrived China in September 2014. I was flying in different Spanish aviation companies as Captain, TRI and TRE for more than 15 years before working in China.In 2009, due to the global financial crisis, there was the growth of low cost aviation companies which brought a radical change in terms of contract conditions for pilots in Europe. At that moment, to avoid unfavorable contracts, I started talking with some colleagues who already working in China to seek other opportunities and I found out it was the time to start a new challenge in my career in China too.
2. Why do you choose (Tianjin) airline?
I knew Tianjin Airlines from my former colleagues who already working in Tianjin Airlines in that time. Their introduction about the company was good enough for me to apply the position as an A320 Captain. The good reputation of Tianjin Airlines and favorable working conditions made me choose Tianjin Airlines. Moreover, the commuting contract and the strong background of Tianjin Airlines (HNA group) were the other critical reasons why I decide to work for Tianjin Airlines.
3. What is your first impression of working in China?
When I arrived China 4 years ago, I was impressed by how powerful China is. Things here in China change very fast. The whole country is developing all the time, especially in the aviation market. Chinese feel very proud of their country and the company that they work for. I assure that they are right for it. Beside, the differences between working in European companies and Chinese companies impressed me at the beginning of working in China.
4. In general, what China has benefitted you?
In my opinion, the current developing phase of China has benefitted me. I believe as a pilot, it is very important to be in the market where is developing and where you can see yourself grow in the developing phase. Witnessing my growth, no matter in personal life or in my career, is exciting and impressing.
5. Do you feel difference when working in China and in your home country?
The main difference I found while working in China is that Chinese aviation companies invest huge money in training their crews. I feel Chinese aviation companies care a lot on the safety issue which lead to the different policies comparing with European aviation companies. Currently, the aviation market has changed in Europe. The major companies are feeding new low-cost airlines which are growing very fast. Those companies demand more pilots of course, but they are basically hiring less experience pilots for either Captain or First Officer positions which offering lower working conditions than the Chinese aviation companies. In Chinese aviation companies, the priority is to hire experienced Captains to achieve their expansion with a high level of safety.
6. How do you tackle the difficulties while living oversea?
China has a different culture than western countries; those differences might cause some enjoyment or some frustrations too. Therefore, I join a nice expat community to share experiences and help one another. I believe that helps to tackle the difficulties while living overseas.
7. How do you manage your work and family? Does your family locate in China or in your home country?My family is living in Spain. Tianjin Airlines offer many commuting options that most of the expat pilots can have our families abroad.
8. What is your roster? Do you think (agree) the commuting program will help pilots to manage the work and life balanced and also more harmony?
I just finished my training on A330. I will renew my contract with 130 days off for the next two years. One of the best things about this contract is that we can change it once a year based on our preferences. In this case, I can manage to balance the work and family perfectly.
9. When is your last holiday? What do you usually do on dayoffs/holiday?
My last holiday was Christmas of course. I went back to Spain to enjoy holiday with family and friends. When I have holiday between my roaster, when I don’t go back home, I spend time on outdoor activities with the music on, or doing the city tour where my job took me to.
10. Do you have any suggestions to the pilots who want to work in Asia but with the second thoughts?
In my opinion, if anyone does not feel satisfied with his particular situation currently, China is definitely a good option. If someone wants to achieve his goals in China he has to have one positive mentality and be open mind. Of course we all need time to adapt to a new culture, it is better if you try to adapt to their culture as soon as possible to get what you are looking for. I am totally grateful to Tianjin Airlines for the opportunity to work and improve in my career. Here in China I have a brilliant future ahead for me and my family.
-----Words from editor-----
It is never too late to jump out of your comfort zone to pursue a more balanced lifestyle. Captain Camilo used to spend almost all his time at work. However, on the other side of world, his talents are well exploited which in turn giving him a chance to transit from flying A320 to A330. A long haul roster allow him to maximize his value of time to live a better quality of life. Wanna work with Captain Camilo in Tianjin Airlines for a better quality of life? Please visit the links below for job availabilities and working conditions.
* potential transition opportunities after 700 hours flying time with Tianjin Airlines for pilots career advancement from E190 to A320 or from A320 to A330.
For other Airbus opportunities, please see the chart below.
For more information about Boeing pilot vacancies from each aviation company, please click here for details. Should you be interested in the positions, please let us know. If you currently not meet the requirement,contact us, let’s help you to reach your expectation.
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