Pilots go through a complex hiring process at FedEx.
DC-10 Simulator Evaluation: After they submit their FedEx online profile, pilots arrive to Memphis where they take DC-10 sim or simulator evaluation, which usually takes place on the first assessment day. In the morning, a group of the prospective pilots meets with MD-11 Captain in class who explains to them what plane they will be flying and gives them ballpark power settings, pitch attitudes, and general familiarization with the location of objects in the cockpit. The power settings which you will receive will be as follows: o Level, 200 knots = 60% N1 o Level, 250 knots = 55% N1 o 1,000 feet per minute descent at 200 knots. After the Captain has given instruction and put job applicants at ease, he will offer them to draw a lottery and choose a number that will determine the order of their simulator evaluation.
DC-10 sim preparation includes numerous tasks, several of which are as follows:
- Start off level;
- Climb and descend;
- Turn;
- Accelerate and decelerate;
- Vertical S’s;
- Steep turns;
- Clearing to VOR;
- Holding (on a cardinal radial of 90, 180, and 360 degrees).
All pilots usually get different entries and radials. It is essential to slow to 200, when you descend below 6000 feet. Also, hold at 5000 feet. You also need to figure out power setting for a 200 knot climb and descend, using “power idle.” Make sure to look at pitch to maintain 1000 fpm, then climb and again descend. The pattern is as follows: cardinal heading at 5000ft; slow from 250 to 200, descend to 2000 ft. at 1000 fpm during the descend, turn to cardinal heading at 30 degrees bank, at 2000 feet, accel to 350, and turn.
A Cognitive Test: An answer whether you passed your DC-10 sim will be given to you within 3 hours. If you succeeded, you will be invited for several tests, a no less challenging part of FedEx’s hiring process. One of the tests is cognitive. It measures pilots’ abstract thinking, inductive reasoning, language aptitude, knowledge organization, and problem-solving, among other cognitive abilities.
A Knowledge Test: Another part is a knowledge test comprising about 6000 questions. Questions posed in this test include an even mix of aero, engine and flaps, WX, TAS, MACH, and IAS. This test is, in many ways, similar to the Air Force Officer’s Qualifying Test. There may also be a logic test with ATC talk at the background.
A Personality Assessment: The last part on the test is Hogan Personality Inventory. This test is comprised of about 240 questions, which you need to answer within 50 minutes. Go through a few dry runs with JobTestPrep’s Personality Test. We will help you create a striking personality profile that will strengthen a good impression you have created on your examination. Our exclusive PrepPack™ contains all necessary resources to help you place your personal qualities in the most flattering light.