Australian Pilot

[triton]

G'day All,
Long time reader, first time poster. I have been doing a lot of thinking recently and am quite keen on moving my aviation career from Australia to Canada. I have done a bit of searching around on these forums and those of PPRuNe looking for some uptodate information.

First things first, I am in need of converting my licence. I understand the examination requirements, medical requirements and flight test requirements in order to convert my licence from an Australian ATPL to a Canadian ATPL. The approximate costs that I have had quoted for this are about $4000. Does anyone have any recommendations on which school to go to for this conversion?

Next comes down to work. I have begun the process of applying for a working holiday visa so that I have the right to live and work in Canada. As Canada is relatively close to the Global Financial Crisis I am assuming that job growth is very modest however I am wondering if anyone would be able to give me some "in-the-field" appreciation of this.

Currently to date I have an ATPL with 2750 hrs TT with 1500 turbine, 1200 multi-engine command and nearly 950 P1 on the B1900. I also have an expired instructor rating and have had some experience with mountain flying up into Papua New Guinea, north of Australia. The plan once I get to Canada, post licence conversion, would be to road trip, trying to find work along the way.

Historically with Australia, to find work, people go west. I am wondering (geographically or operator specific) where would the places to visit be that may be receiptive to someone with my current experience level? Also, with having browsed through some threads I have found on the topic of foreign pilots, is there a stigma in Canada when it comes to foreign pilots, moreso than general in the industry, or are people very receiptive of them?

Any feedback is much appreciated. From the Canadians I have met here in Australia you folk seem quite well mannered and relaxed. I only hope to get over and see the place, catching up with all who I have met here in Australia.

Regards,
Triton.

[traveller1982]

check your PM's