I'm currently working for Gulf Helicopters and we have the option of working 6 and 6 or 8 and 4.
Basic rate in Doha is US$262 per day so depending on what rotation you work depends on your income. we're flying 412's and the work is steady 50 to 70 hours per month but tends to become very routine very quickly.
As with ADA and Aerogulf we're all hoping that a significant pay rise is around the corner but no sign of it at this stage. We're all aware that pay scalesaround the world are increasing to the point that we'll get left behind not too far down the track. Having said that, we have a good bunch of guys here and the lifestyle is pretty relaxed. Doha is a very safe place to work and contrary to popular opinion is not dry.....just a little on the expensive side!
We live on a compound and usually share a villa between three pilots. We have a clubhouse a pool, sauna and gym and share the compound with the Emiri flight cabin crew.
We work to JAROPS and I've had to work harder for less money elsewhere.
Maintenance is good although we've had a run on some of our experienced LAME's leaving to go to ADA. Training is reasonable and we all get six mointhly VBC/IBC checks and night deck currency.
All in all not a bad job, not the best pay in the world but not the worst. a nice relaxed lifestyle and a good bunch of guys.