Best way to get into the MNR?

shimmydampner · Post by **shimmydampner** » Fri Apr 09, 2004 7:33 am

What is the best way to get into the MNR? Stay in the bush and build the float time or do a season or two and then go IFR? What are their mins? Multi IFR necessary? Any info would be greatly appreciated as I have some big descisions to make soon.

Cat Driver · Post by **Cat Driver** » Fri Apr 09, 2004 8:19 am

First off a frontal lobotamy would make it easier to work with them.

CLguy · Post by **CLguy** » Fri Apr 09, 2004 8:36 am

Shimmydampener, I'll try and answer your questions. First you won't get anywhere in the MNR unless you have at least 1500 hours on floats and more is better on aircraft such as Beaver, Otter or Beech 18 is real good. Of course time on the types we operate such as Turbo Beaver, Twin Otter, CL-415 or 215 or any previous firefighting experience is even better but of course that is not that common and can be real hard to get. If you don't yet have at least the minimum float time then I would say stay on floats until you have at least that. Once you secure the float time then yes Multi-IFR is next. To get a contract on a Turbo Beaver you don't need it but you won't be able to move beyond that without the Multi time and some IFR time with at least your ATPL exams written. Of course there are exceptions to the rule and we have guys right now sitting right seat on 415's that have only the ratings and no Multi-IFR background.

Usually new hires start on a Turbo Beaver and do a contract or two and advance from there, so I would shoot for one of the contract positions and plan on working my way up from there. Of course again there are exceptions were guys have been hired direct left seat of a Twin Otter or right seat on a 415. It all depends on the supply and demand, your experience and of course who you know.

The most important thing is to get to know some of the guys and if able drop into visit the Chief Pilot in Sault Ste Marie and let him get to know you and keep in contact. Also if able stop by any of the bases and introduce yourself as most guys get hired by having internal references. Hope this helps and good luck!

CLguy · Post by **CLguy** » Fri Apr 09, 2004 8:38 am

Gee . not all of us had to have one. Some of us were all ready crazy!!

Cat Driver · Post by **Cat Driver** » Fri Apr 09, 2004 8:56 am

I posted that just to get you and Drifting Rain to strike at the bait.

shimmydampner · Post by **shimmydampner** » Fri Apr 09, 2004 9:58 am

CLguy, thanks alot, check your PM's.

Cat, I'm beginning to think I should've got one before entering aviation all together