Qatar Airways - The 5 star JOKE!!!

[dark magic]

Please pilots and cabin crew - be warned - do not join Qatar Airways!
Qatar Airways is a 5 star joke from internal - they do not give what they say they will and you will spend your entire life unhappy and not get what you expect.
Lets put everything down how it is - as a pilot you will get 2 weeks in company accommodation and then you are expected to move out. Trust me things are expensive here! Try get a lease in a place without a residence permit... good luck..... it takes money!! Yes you can get it but all the money that you bring with you (yes ridiculous - you need to bring money to this place to even make money lol) will go to secure a lease.
Then you suffer while you are not able to get a car, furniture and all the basic needs like internet phone etc etc.
Right now you are not even able to get a loan for a car since they have this ridiculous rule that you can only bond half your salary, after all deductions. Wel this is where it gets interesting - you will have no money and therefore do not qualify for a loan!
Oh how did I forget to mention - Qatar Airways do not give a damn about it as they do not give a interest free loan like Emirates does (what I think is the pilots 5 star airline)
Also you will be told that they refund the cargo expenses well good luck getting that money back not to mention any money that you pay out for!
You will spend every single one of your off days chasing people in the office - just to be pushed from pillar to post!
Speaking of that - everyting you need in Qatar Airways is about pushing you from one tower to the next building etc.
You even battle to get a alcohol license - yes even that is under control in this control freak of a country!

I will not even get started on flight attendants - guys and girls - do not take it!!! You have NO life! You have to be in Doha 12 hours before any pick up - you share accomadation with a bunch of slave type labour people working here - as they can only hire slaves for this job. If you come for an interview please ask them - how many western flight attendants do you have?!?! They will lie to you as there are none!!!lol
A western person will not take this! Do you want to hear the biggest control freak joke - if you want to get married you have to ask permission from the boss lol - is he now your dad?!?!

Basically to sum it up - if you want to have a life and enjoy your time in an airline go to emirates or etihad!! You will never be happy here!!
Please guys share your thoughts so that more people do not get fooled and suck with these ridiculous bonds (loans) so you can not leave.
No one is moving from emirates to come to Qatar but trust me there are many people moving the other way around - there must be a reason for it!! Think about it and share your views so that more people do not get caught and maybe one can only hope that the conditions will get better - inshallah!!!!!!!

[spearomic]

Do not believe this person, all his informations are wrong. I am a new joiner and things are great in Doha, you get 6 weeks accommodation and they will keep you there if you don't find a place. car loans are approved right away, not even need for RP. RP you get in 2 weeks only. Qatar Airways is well organize despite the fact that a lot of people are joining, and very helpful, they give you advance salary, free transportation the first week, and cabs are cheap in Doha. All the people that joined with me felt that the company really holds your hands throughout the joining process. People working here are very friendly. I am tired of hearing this nonsense. Of course they have rules but you need rules for an airline who is growing that fast. If you come here with a positive attitude you will enjoy it.

[Dubaian]

You even battle to get a alcohol license - yes even that is under control in this control freak of a country! Liquor permits for Off-Sales are quite normal in non-dry Gulf States. AFAIK only Bahrain does not require one.

In Doha I would not call it a battle - once you have an RP you just need a supporting letter from your employer as the value of permit granted is salary-related. Then the procedure is simple. I do resent paying a 1000QAR refundable deposit for the permit - but it's the same for everyone here.

Cannot comment on the QR-related items in the two posts above - interesting divergence of viewpoints though. As they say, 2 sides to every story....

[fatbus]

Noticed a crew in LHR 16 CC 13 Asians and not west Asians, Pur western girl and 2 ME guys

[JCUERVO]

Funny to see all of Ali B's personal PPrune harem come out to disprove what is in fact a very fair post...Dark Magic spot ON! Most of us who have had to deal with the reality of the 5 " star" culture wont even take the time to post on here as to busy looking to get out! But dont worry, truth comes out and everyone makes up there own mind... Truth is in everyones perspective

[gcc_]

JCUERVO,

Who is this Ali B?
You mean Ali G? :E

[jimmyg]

So being rude and un-polite is acceptable behavior?

I will never get used to or accept this type of archaic approach to management.

We must set the tone treating you staff with respectful courteousness. It would appear that many managers and companies in the region are starving for efficient compliance and get just the opposite with this insecure weak management style.

Treating people with honesty, dignity and respect will most always have the desired effects.

[av8tordude]

So being rude and un-polite is acceptable behavior?

Jimmyg...
Trying re-reading his post! No where does it say you have to be rude. Being rude or disrespectful is unacceptable behavior and will quickly find yourself terminated!

Dark Magic spot ON!
Actually...he's not.
Truth is in everyones perspective True, unfortunately their perspective are distorted by the realities of the situation.


they do not give what they say they will and you will spend your entire life unhappy and not get what you expect.

Every document I received was explained in detailed. No surprises. If you were told differently, than its possible, but highly unlikely.

as a pilot you will get 2 weeks in company accommodation and then you are expected to move out.WRONG!!!! You are accommodated for 4 weeks which can be extended to 6 weeks. If you need more time, just inform them with an explanation why you need it. I know one person is who arrived in May and he is allow to stay in his accommodation until August.

Trust me things are expensive here! Try get a lease in a place without a residence permit... good luck..... it takes money!! Yes you can get it but all the money that you bring with you (yes ridiculous - you need to bring money to this place to even make money lol) will go to secure a lease.You just contradicted yourself!:rolleyes: First you say you need a RP to rent a place, but if you have your own money, you can get your own place??? C'mon, stop drinking & typing. You going to hurt yourself:ouch:

FACT...I moved out of my accommodation 1-week after arriving. I only needed a copy of my visa that was in my passport. Oh...the part about being expensive...its relative to where you came from and its only expensive if you want to make it expensive.

You are afforded QAR 11,800 for Housing, Transportation, & Utilities. I'll admit, to get anything decent, it will cost about QAR 12k and up. Sure it sucks you have to come out of pocket to find accommodation, but lets come back to reality. Before you come here, are you getting free accommodation
where you staying now????

you suffer while you are not able to get a car, furniture and all the basic needs like internet phone etc etc.
Right now you are not even able to get a loan for a car since they have this ridiculous rule that you can only bond half your salary, after all deductions. Wel this is where it gets interesting - you will have no money and therefore do not qualify for a loan! Where do I start...

The next day after arriving, I got a prepaid phone. I purchased the cheapest model to cover the basics (make and receive calls). In total, it cost me QAR160 for the phone & QAR50 for the minutes. Calling the USA, I was able to talk for 5hrs. When I was ready, I purchased a smart phone. You can purchase a mobile internet device that will give access to the internet.

Car:
You will not be able to get a car loan until you receive your first paycheck. Until then, cab drivers are pretty cheap. If cabbing is not your thing, you can rent a car. (QAR1600-2200 for the smallest car). All you need is a credit card and your visa in your passport.

Loan:
Being bonded has nothing to do with getting a loan. You can get a loan as soon as you get your first paycheck. The amount of will be determined by your position (F/O or CA). F/O can get a QAR200K car loan approval. I'm not sure about the loan amount for CA, but I'm sure its a larger amount.

You can also get a person loan as well. F/O can get a QAR20K person loan.

Furniture:
You can get furnished housing or unfurnished housing.

Oh how did I forget to mention - Qatar Airways do not give a damn about it as they do not give a interest free loan like Emirates does (what I think is the pilots 5 star airline) Now the camillian shows his true colors. Its about who's airline is better. Same tired conversation from a typical kid pilot. "My dick is bigger than yours!" I can list many others pluses and minus about every other airlines, but if you have been in the industry long enough and done your research, then you will know the pluses and minus about the airline you are considering.

I can not speak intelligently about Emirates loan policies, but I suspect Emirates is not the place you are receiving your loan. If you are getting an interest-free loan, it most likely an agreement made between the banks and Emirates Airlines for pilots to received such a benefit.

QR has benifits as too, but considering your post, you are not "assertive" enough (lazy) to find out.

Also you will be told that they refund the cargo expenses well good luck getting that money back not to mention any money that you pay out for! Wrong again...not surprising!:=:rolleyes:
If you have understood what was emailed to you, you will be reimbursed. If you had a different interpretation, then I suggest you be assertive enough to ask for a further clarification.

Here is what I receive and I suspect everyone receives the same email. It seems very clear what QR will reimburse you...

Unaccompanied baggage

Please find attached the necessary authority document to be presented at the Cargo Centre from where you wish your UNACCOMPANIED baggage (Cargo) to be dispatched. A copy of the authority document has also been sent to the nearest QR Office. You will need to carry the airway bill with you for easy clearance of your cargo.

Your unaccompanied baggage must be sent in your name, c/o (mention department name and contact number), Qatar Airways, P.O. Box 22550, Doha, State of Qatar.

The Unaccompanied Baggage (Cargo) entitlement only covers actual freight cost, the war risk, fuel surcharge and limited storage costs upon arrival in Doha. Third party costs such as packing/unpacking, custom duties, insurance, moving, porterage, handling agency fees, transportation expenses incurred at point of origin, via location or at Doha are not reimbursed.

Qatar Airways is not responsible for storage or clearance, demurrage and other related costs of your cargo. You will clear all goods through a Clearing Agent at the Cargo Terminal. The agents generally have their own minivans for local transportation of goods to the residence at a negotiated price.

Please take note that the first 5 days will free of storage charges from the date of the notification by QAS Cargo. If the cargo is not collected after the grace period the consignee will be subjected to storage charges as per QAS published storage fees.

For procedure and assistance in clearance of your cargo you will need to contact the Cargo department as per details listed below.
Contact Numbers: 4622474 / 4621403
Email: [email protected]


You will spend every single one of your off days chasing people in the office - just to be pushed from pillar to post!
Speaking of that - everyting you need in Qatar Airways is about pushing you from one tower to the next building etc. You must not be an assertive person, expecting everyone to wait on you hand and foot. You must be...what that word...oh...ROYALTY!!!:rolleyes::hmm:

You even battle to get a alcohol license - yes even that is under control in this control freak of a country! Every Gulf Country has some type of restriction on alcohol and pork. Considering your location, you should have been aware of this restrictions. (unless you been living under a rock.)

I will not even get started on flight attendants - guys and girls - do not take it!!! You have NO life! You have to be in Doha 12 hours before any pick up - you share accomadation with a bunch of slave type labour people working here - as they can only hire slaves for this job. If you come for an interview please ask them - how many western flight attendants do you have?!?! They will lie to you as there are none!!!lol
A western person will not take this! Do you want to hear the biggest control freak joke - if you want to get married you have to ask permission from the boss lol - is he now your dad?!?!I'll just say this, the cabin crews at QR are paid approximately USD2-3K/month and receive free housing. I can guarantee you that no western F/A will come here for that type of money, because you can make more than that working for a regional carrier in the States. As for the other cabin crew members, most are from countries that are experiencing difficult employment opportunities or come here as a stepping stone to something better. Regardless, without experience, you will have to start somewhere.

I agree that F/A's should not have to ask for permission to live the life as the choose or the restriction place on the daily lives. Their salary also needs an improvement as well. That being said, they can't complain about this information as it is widely known.

Basically to sum it up - if you want to have a life and enjoy your time in an airline go to emirates or etihad!! You will never be happy here!!
Please guys share your thoughts so that more people do not get fooled and suck with these ridiculous bonds (loans) so you can not leave.
No one is moving from emirates to come to Qatar but trust me there are many people moving the other way around - there must be a reason for it!! Think about it and share your views so that more people do not get caught and maybe one can only hope that the conditions will get better - inshallah!!!!!!! To sum it up...I'm not here to promote and degrade QR, but at least get your facts straight!:rolleyes: People come here looking for FACTS so they can make their own determination about their future career path.

Inshallah!!!

[jimmyg]

av8tordude,

My reply was not so much a retort to the previous post but more to the core issues of accepted MANAGEMENT practices of the region.

This is how it is; just live with it go along or leave it is a poor excuse for the lazy and uneducated.

In order to get things done, being assertive? Yes many times do require it.

Proactive? Always!

Cheers

[Jetaim]

Inshallah... I will never ever have to move to desert, travel in time back to the Middle Age and deal with idiotic subcontinent clerk/slaves to get things done. Stay away if you can!

[ironbutt57]

idiotic subcontinent clerk/slaves to get things done.

That's a horrible thing to say, they are human beings just like the rest of us, learning cultural differences can be enlightening, frustrating, but for sure educational, I'm sure they find us frustrating (and arrogant) as well, but it's an opportunity to broaden your horizons,

[archer_737]

Don't take Jetaim seriously.

Just go to visit his/her posts and you will see that 90% of them, from the beginning, concerns Middle East, QR, EK, EY... He/she had some problem over there and can get over it so he/she has to spend the whole day blaming the people working there or the companies.

Some old frustration maybe?

[dark magic]

OMG all the company guys have to come out :ugh:
Look at some of you - lets put it to you as fact. If you think Qatar Airways think about your well being then you are a fool! Pain and simple!
Just do one "unstable approach" and you are done!
I this an inviroment to be working - yes I understand that it is there as protection - I guess cause they have a bunch of LOW time 200 hour pilots that actually fly unlike Cathay where you have to sit boy pilot to get some hours and basic experience!
Lets face it some of these rules are a joke and if I had of known the whole package - and yes that includes making less money than before - and yes I did recieve housing in my last job (I guess some of you are working away from home for the first time - but that is industry norm to get housing!) and lets face it I did not have to work with the entire office staff made up for a bunch of head knodders (and people working in this joke will know what this means)
As for the company men posting - either you are management sitting trying to ensure you still get pilots or you are some of those boring pilots that will sc**w us all to get ahead - yay what do you get for being like that - a faster command? a better position? What ever - at the end of the day you will be messed around and your time wil come when you see the light lol
God help you really.
Please guys what I have said is fact - all the other replies are a few and I mean few guys that are happy! Everyone that is here I am sure is looking at new jobs and or can not move just yet due to their cunning plan to bond people. This is something they started recently as so many people were coming here - getting the rating and then going to fly for a real airline - not an airline that is all about show for the outside, meanwhile the inside is rotting!!
Everything you do here is about manual paper work! NOTHING is easy and trust me there is no head knodder "holding your hand" lol
As I say if you want to buy booze you have to submit paper work and ask your father "boss" if you can PLEASE have a letter to drink lol
When after more than 24 hours you get this letter then you have to drive miles into the dessert and pay rediculious prices not to mention that you ahve to pay 1000 riyals as a deposit. Deposit for what can I ask?!?!
Do not even get started with the imcompetence.
There are no western people in the office and that will drive any sain person mad :ugh::ugh::ugh::ugh::ugh::ugh:

IF YOU HAVE THE OPTION AND YOU HAVE OTHER OFFERS - DO NOT COME HERE!!! trust me I would be out if I could!!

[spearomic]

av8tordude :D:D:D:D:D:D

[givemewings]

One point of yours falls over- having to get a booze license is not unique to QR- even your 'five star pilot airline' Emirates crew have to do this too- it's a government thing, not an airline thing. People not in QR, living in Doha, need one as well.

Took me almost one month to get mine...!

[Black Pudding]

What a Gob****e

[CaptainProp]

Haha.... :ok:

[ziubelu]

Yah..just stay were you are and avoid bothering us...of course it is not easy but we are doing well...problems have a solutions and so far we are doing well...I had 5 weeks free temporary accomodation..a car in 3 days..a new telephone and internet in 5..a house in une week..payed the safety deposit in three months..had an advance on the salary in 3 days...a type rating in 1 month..and only met friendly peolple that rushed to tell me "welcome in Qatar"...guess what ask yourself if the arabs have the same treatment in western countries!....take care and hope you get a happy life elsewere...:ok:

[ziubelu]

...yeah...ha..ha..ha..ha..ha..I'm pissing in my pants...!:D...it's fun over there huh???...just some bullets chasing you 24 around the clock...hi..hi..hi...
:E

[ziubelu]

..it's not a matter of being rude...it's just..please do this and that...please...and thank you and smile (but don't forget if you don't you'll be sucked) thank you and smile...

[ironbutt57]

just some bullets chasing you 24 around the clock...hi..hi..hi..


That's in Jo'burgh buddy, not here...

[spearomic]

It's a great airline, and people are very friendly, even surprise to see the hospitality of the locals. Only negative point, driving, but after 4 weeks I got used to it. It is also a great place for kids. Just keep an open mind, and it will really benefit your life.

[White Knight]

I can not speak intelligently about Emirates loan policies, but I suspect Emirates is not the place you are receiving your loan. If you are getting an interest-free loan, it most likely an agreement made between the banks and Emirates Airlines for pilots to received such a benefit.



Speaking from the 5* airline in DXB, the loan is from EMIRATES and nothing to do with any banks... It's for a car when you join and is 70,000 dhm interest free!

Clear?

[Airmann]

@spearmic, Can I just clarify, when did you meet the locals? Do you mean real Qataris or the millions of other people from around the world, that might have looked qatari since you probably can't tell the difference between one brown person and the next?

In almost one year at the company I have probably spent a total of 5 minutes in the company of qataris, most of it had to do with ministry stuff, visas, licenses etc. please enlighten us on your meetings with the "locals".

BTW I'm not bashing the airline or Qatar, I just genuinely curiois to know where spearminic met these locals he's talking about.

[spearomic]

When I moved here it was my plan to learn from the locals and understand their cultures, I have done many research to differantiate them like the way they dress etc... I have met many already and they were very open with me and my family, opening their houses and offering me tea, having interesting conversations. The locals I have met so far are very warm and friendly.
I have been in many places like most of you here, and I find it very enriching to open your mind to different cultures. Now I hear a lot of negative posts, from narrow minded people, and I'm just sharing my experience to show those interested that this place is actually worth it, and in a few years it will be the place to be.
That's my modest opinion, we can agree to disagree but I'm very happy with this new turn in my career.

[Airmann]

I'm not bashing anyone, I was just curious, I have hardly met any of the locals. If anyone were to ask me where one would go to meet the locals I'de suggest the ministry of transportation or the left lane of the D-ring road.

[spearomic]

You never tried to meet the locals, you are just caught up on your cliche.

[Airmann]

Don't be too quick to judge, what efforts have the locals made to meet me? But it's good that you've made the effort to pursue learning about the place your living in, it'll definitely help you get by.

As for me I've only lived in the middle east for 20 years, that's a long time to keep the cliche going wouldn't you say? As I said, don't be too quick to judge, I'm speaking out of experience, the Qataris are a very private group, more so than other Arabs. That's why I was curious.

[av8tordude]

the left lane of the D-ring roadAirmann, thanks for the laugh.:) Best way to meet a local...GUARANTEED!!!. Best statement of the year!!!!:D

[homesick rae]

It has been 10 years since I left QR - I was there when we had the B747s and witnessed the takeover and growth of the company. I have some great memories and some **** ones - mainly great though.

Dark Magic - mass hyperbole springs to mind here. There are, and always have been, issues. I was a CSD and the Cabin Crew were not allowed liquor permits and yes there were some stringent rules (latterly) regarding curfews and all that nonsense.

However, I was, at one point, the only male crew member in (one of) the female accommodation blocks. AAB was aware and turned a blind eye, not just because I was going to marry the girl (I did!) I was living with but also because I was a male presence among females and, in a sense, perhaps a wee bit of security.

I finally rented my own place where my missus could stay without scrutiny but everyone knew....

When I left more and more rules were being implemented and it was mainly unnecessary but I ended up with a beautiful wife and two amazing children so I cannot complain....even if AAB was starting to become even more tyrannical and paranoid...

I wouldn't recommend it to anyone for sure but I would not be as harsh and OTT as your good self - keep calm and carry on mate!

Cheers

HR

[Seja]

It's a muslim country for god's sake what do you expect? Being able to buy it in the supermarket next to you?? :confused:

[dark magic]

All you company men are quite rediculious!!
You have completely missed the point - I was only using the alcohol license as an example how stupid the system is where you have to run around with bits of paper from one place to the next. Not one of you can deny this!
It is the way they work here and I guess the Indian mentality, where no one will be accountable for anything - I will say again - try and get anything done!
As even the company men say - you have to be forcefull lol - is that normal in a so called 5 star airline?
I dont think so! lol
What I have stated is facts - as others have called a fare post - of course in any situation you are going to get the company guys that will back a losing horse but as I have said - IF you have another option for another job THEN TAKE THAT ONE!! DO NOT COME HERE!! I wish I didnt and I to like many that are here have to stick it out - it is not right to have to work under these conditions but hey if you make the bed you have to lie on it.
I would only like to give the heads up so that people do not quit good jobs to come to this joke of a place that truely looks good until you are in the mess.
I to was fooled :ugh::yuk:
Plain and simple FACTS - remember I have nothing to gain from this - I am stuck and would hate for people to be in the same situation
Good luck guys

[Daft Wader]

Looking for a " Local " , try a LHS or RHS near you . There are more than you might think.

:ok:

[Che Xindamail]

In QR's 20,000 (?) employees there are about 150 Qataris. That's it.
Some very nice Qatari gentlemen in the right seat of the A320 I might add.

[dark magic]

Flying with or meeting the locals are the least of the problems.
Try working with the office staff where all but maybe one or two fleet managers are from Indian. Everyone passes the ball to the next person - nothing gets done in this airline.
Hello captain - ah no captain sorry - that is this person you need to talk to lol
And so you get pushed around day in and day out
Again do you see anyone from emirate or etihad moving to qatar? NO of course not - but the other way around - YES!!! sign me up

[av8tordude]

Again do you see anyone from emirate or etihad moving to qatar? NO of course not - but the other way around - YES!!! sign me up

You compared QR to EK & EY on more than one occasion. With the wealth of information available about the various airlines currently operating, why did you apply here. Why did you accept QR's offer instead of going to the other airlines?

Before you respond, think carefully about your response. It will DEFINE who you really are!!!

[pproonhero]

av8tordude,

With due respect, have you even started flying the line at QR? You are defending the company but it seems you have only joined recently.

Please share your views of the company after 2 years flying the line, and all that entails. That would add weight to your opinion.

For now, QR remains a stepping stone for many. Which other flag carrier do people leave to join a loco?

Something must be wrong, right?

pproonhero.

[dark magic]

Pproonhero - well said. I think Avi8tor dude is only one month with the company or an office jockey who doesnt fly.

The reason i am stuck in this hole is like many other pilots in that we are taking the best opportunity, i,e the fastest way out with a decent type rating. Once i have what ive come for, i'll be leaving like everyone else. As i've said before its a stepping stone and this is purely a warning to other pilots who have what they want to stay away!

The rosters in this place are getting worse with split duties and only logging 66% of the time you actually do. Nowhere in Europe will you get away with this. Only my pirate relatives work 24 hours a day with no rest but there they are making the best bucks, with a few million per boat! Hehe.

[spearomic]

It seems to me that you are using QR more than the opposite, so stop bitching!

[727lvr]

I agree with spearomic ...... it's getting really annoying and pathetic .

[av8tordude]

You are defending the company but it seems you have only joined recently.

I'm not defending anything, I'm keeping it in perspective! Do you think you're not going to find similar problems elsewhere?

Please share your views of the company after 2 years flying the line, and all that entails. That would add weight to your opinion.Whether its 2 year or 10 years, my opinion will be same...keeping it in perspective. What makes you think, I'm not going to find similar problems elsewhere?

For now, QR remains a stepping stone for many. Which other flag carrier do people leave to join a loco? Something must be wrong, right?

Wrong! Apparently you and others complaining left one to come here! So it can't be all that bad.:rolleyes:

[Haywood]

Home is home and all is familiar. Deciding to move somewhere else is based on many grounds and strictly peronal.

But - if such decision is made you need to understand that you are away from home und things are different maybe not even close to what you are used too.

Decisions kan be reverted and I guess the best for you is to go back to your homecountry and join the flagcarrier (if they will take you).

If you cannot go right now, wait until you can but stop posting your private unhappyness

[samesame]

Dark magic ,I think is time for you go back to your manuals, read and try to improve your performance, where ever you go if you are not up to the required standards u will have the same problems, and u will have to write all this garbage again to justify your failure.

[spearomic]

Samesame :D:D:D I knew that was the real story behind this guy !

[Gncy]

Hey guys,

I read a lot of sensible arguments from many of you. I don't pretend to know better than anyone, I just would like to share my own experience. So don't shoot the messenger, ok?! :)

I think that you lifestyle in Doha and how you feel with Qatar Airways really depends on your fleet. Therefore, as far as I am concerned, all of you might be right.

At first when I joined I was more in the pros rather than the cons. But after having been flying for some time with the A320, I don't really like anymore my life in Qatar. It has been less than a year I have been flying here it is true, but to give you an example I will fly tonight for the 6th night in a row. And I don't really sleep in the day (nobody really does, this is our physiology to recover better after a good night of sleep). This is kind of depressing and unsafe. Now don't get me wrong, my friends in the A330 and B777 seem to enjoy it.

From my personal survey, I would say 85% of the pilots I flew with agreed with me and plan to leave one day (no such plan for me yet). The rest didn't really want to talk about it or said they like the company but recognised that it was better when they arrived. Most of the pilots who left where from this fleet (40 to Etihad this month according to the rumours). I didn't have the time and energy to check this information (not sure I officially could) but it seems to correlate what people shared with me.

Regarding the title of this thread, I must confess that I was expecting more from a five star airline (too much obviously). I am really surprised they don't really try hard to improve this roster for instance (as it has been many years like that as I heard). Trust me, flying so much is dangerous as we are, both of us, fatigued when we do this kind of flights. Then maybe you will tell me : why don't you call it fatigued if you are?

Well I have no doubt on my future in the company if I do that every two weeks (my average). Nobody will do that but everybody should (because 100% of the pilots I flew with told me they were actually fatigued and agreed to say that it was unsafe), that would be the only way to change this. This won't happen.

For me flying is like sitting on a chair: one leg for the pilots (training, experience, practice, physical conditions...), one for the weather, one for the aircraft (maintenance, age, general conditions...) and one for the airport (navaids, facilities, runway, terrain and obstacles...). If you start your flight with already one broken leg, then an incident or accident can happen in case of any additional problem.
I am really surprised to see that my life and my job aren't really different from two of my previous companies, who were officially blacklisted for many years and didn't pretend to be a 5-star airline.

On a less vital subject, but still important, it is very hard for me to have a social life in Doha. Most of my friends are pilots too and our days off are rarely synchronised (especially when my roster changes with less than 24-hour notice). Even tired I pushed myself to go out and meet friends outside of the company, but it is not easy as many weeks can pass until the next time we meet. And going alone to a bar or a restaurant isn't really nice for me.

About the cultural aspect, I also came with the idea of learning the language and meeting the locals. But you go to the first two learning sessions, you have to cancel the third because of your job and you become lazy after. I am human, there is only so much I can do.

Safe flights to all of you.

[disagreeable]

+ 1 on that Gncy

Alot of truth in this forum, but depends on where you are in the mental cycle here. What I mean is you have definate cycles of frustration here...... simply put, the combination of Doha disorganisation combined with QR disorganisation adds up and eventually you will have a snap......

generally this will happen alot more if you are getting screwed around by office staff ..... eg: your holidays getting shifted or removed; nobody answering phone calls; different answers to questions; no reply to emails even with vital questions being asked; no communication on alot of issues,constant changes to OM A and SOP's..etc etc ...... and the list could really go on..... for those here you know what I mean :ugh:

the problem is they are waiting for the NDIA to come so things can be shifted into a "new" phase..... but I really think they are fooling themselves as most of the problem is with the fact that they employ office staff that are incompetant, with no ryme or reason for things they do to you or others..... they just dont seem to have a template of steps to follow or do to have things in order.... its organised chaos! This also includes some of the managers as well, surely they are approving some of the crap that happens so they are part of the fray as well.

To be fair as well, the whole place is expanding at a riddiculas pace..... and everything is stretched to the limit, BUT thats really no excuse, and is really just bad planning......

Yes I agree, over the water, they have the idea, they think about what they want and make it with quality, and it shows, defections across the pond are happening alot! People disapearing because they are unhappy or not being trainined is also happening. That should give a clue to people who are not here.

All they have to do is simply COPY the treatment of the crews in Emirates for e.g! its not hard!!!!! :ugh:
....... arent we a 5 star airline? or is it fools gold airline? :eek:

Also, the training is good in alot of areas but really bad on other.... double standards and weird interpretations of the SOP's. overworked training captains, no continuous training roster for new hires, not really any significant training material that helps a new joiner/transition jet pilot, terrible CBT etc etc...... :=

The poor guys still on training hold have every right to be :mad: off..... those guys are not getting told whats happening and are being at this stage treated like the indian wheel cleaners! :mad: successful Airline = communication QR!!! no wonder 40 777 guys bailed, and no wonder many others waiting to be trained will too i bet....

as to me, i dont plan to stay past my contract, if i get that far. I owe nothing so its a matter of being patient and going across the water when the time comes, especially if the rosters dont get better and the NDIA is a flop..... :O

To be fair, QR is still a good option if you get the call and NO OTHER opportunities arise...... come and see the other half, you can then decide when your here if its the place for you..... but dont poo poo people for taking the time to open your eyes to how it is here for alot of people.

good luck and enjoy(??) :ok:

[tripjet320]

There is no smoke without fire.

[Iver]

Sounds like no pilot "poaching" agreement between QR and that other growing UAE carrier. Is there still a no-hiring agreement between QR and EK? What about QR and Flydubai or Air Arabia?

[av8tordude]

Sounds like no pilot "poaching" agreement between QR and that other growing UAE carrier. Is there still a no-hiring agreement between QR and EK? What about QR and Flydubai or Air Arabia?

The "No Poaching" agreement has expired, but if you come here without a type, you will be bonded. If you leave before the bond period is over, you will have to pay the balance of the $50K training cost. If you think jumping ship without paying is a good idea, think again. EK flys to QR and the moment you arrive, you will most likely be arrested for non-repayment of your bond.

[silverstreak]

Dark Magic I do agree with most of what you say. Ive been there, got the T Shirt and come out the other side.

FACT - Car loans WILL NOT be approved until 6 months service is complete, and a letter of employment from QR is given to the bank.

Doha isnt that bad to be honest. Pretty small with limited things to do. The beaches arent up to much either but its safe.

I guess QR will never go bust so in a way its a secure airline...

[disagreeable]

interesting read about Qatar via the cables....
US embassy cable - 09DOHA205 (http://cables.mrkva.eu/cable.php?id=198543)
but one thing I had to laugh at was this paragrapgh:

Qatar will seek to become a "mega-brand" by marketing itself as an international destination of "global" quality.
Qatar however lacks the services and supplies to sustain its ambitions to become a global "brand name." The poor quality of labor (born in part of a disenfranchised labor force) and sparseness of services may cause major bottle-necks in its infrastructure......with an ill-trained native workforce. LOL.... really does sum it up.... but i guess you have to be here to really enjoy that slap in the face! Truth is always funnier :-)

[av8tordude]

FACT - Car loans WILL NOT be approved until 6 months service is complete, and a letter of employment from QR is given to the bank.

Ummmm...unless bank policy has changed recently, I was able to get a car loan after receiving my first check! Also, you have the option of financing the 20% down payment required. Can't say much for the other banks, but IBQ made the whole process painless and quick.

[givemewings]

Was asking at the careers centre in HQ the other day for a friend, the girl on the desk told me that there is currently a 12 month 'waiting period' for anyone working for QR who wants to come work for EK. When I asked her if it was only for the job role in question, she said no, it applies for any job in EK. This was maybe 2-3 months ago, so I don't think it's just a rumour unfortunately.

[HamFan]

EK flys to QR and the moment you arrive, you will most likely be arrested for non-repayment of your bond.

Yes but so far no layovers - thank jebus. The GD is a locally-filed document so you should be just fine if you've done a runner and end up flying to Dohaha.

Unless, of course, you end up on the A380 and it sh!ts itself there. Then you might have to sleep in the cabin instead of going into town to enjoy the Guitari "nightlife."

What a sh!thole... thank god I don't live there.

[JABAL]

BLACK MAGIC

If you have found out your Dream place or things are rosey back home!! Why don't you pack up and head home and leave this place for us the SLAVES:{:{:cool:

[mamad]

Hi guys

A lot have been mentionned about firing going on in Qatar airways

Is it that anytime a pilot does an unstabilised approach let s say you find yourself briefly with descent rate above 1000 fpm ( for example 1100) below 1000 ft are you gonna get fired immediatly or not ?

What are the other common reasons for pilot firings ?

thanks

[salamalikum2]

Mamad,
talking about unstable approachs 2 options for you:

1- you go around; nobody will question you.
2- you continue; Somebody will question you in the office,(unless you just exceed the stabilization criteria for a very short period of time due to external factors like gusty wind,downdraft,or in case of emergency..).
And Unless the trend shows in your file that it becomes an habit for you to brake the company policy,IMHO you won't be terminated simply because of ONE unstable approach...well up to a certain extend I guess..:}

Common reasons to be terminated ;
- criticize the CEO
- fail the alcohol test before the flight
- braking the company policy several time
...

[ryanb5005]

Theres an alcohol test before every flight??

[salamalikum2]

No...time to time.
Very aleatoric....sometime you don't see them for ages,sometime you see them 3 times A month.

[av8tordude]

Pilots are only terminated for "patterns" of not following SOP's! If you have an unstable approach, you may find yourself in the CP's office to explain your actions. Most first time offenses only results in a letter in your file.

Word of advice, DON'T BULLSH*T THE BULLSH*TER! All aircraft sends data back to the company after each flight. The company knows whose flying the aircraft. They have a team whose only job is to evaluate that data and to report any violation to the office. Admit your faults, you may get letter in your file, but you won't get fired if its your first attempt. In some case, you won't be terminated for the second violation, but, if your performance does not improve and you find yourself in the office again, don't be surprise if you walk out of the CP's office without a job!

Follow the SOP's. That is what you are paid to do! How difficult can that be????

[mamad]

Thank you guys for this infos

Some previous poster gave me a wrong impression.

thanks

[Paper Lad]

1- you go around; nobody will question you.

Not true.

Despite what is written in the Part A, more than one person has been called to the safety office when a go-around was performed but the company decides that, after a review of the data, a stable approach could have been accomlished.

PL

[Flytdeck]

Regarding the flight data. When a parameter is exceeded, it is flagged and examined by the "gatekeeper". If deemed necessary, the gatekeeper may phone up and have a chat with the pilot(s) involved. If there is a good explanation, then no further action is taken. If not, then the issue is handed over to one of the fleet supervisors. The fleet supervisor may then call in the pilot(s) involved for an interview and review. If it is a serious matter and there is some issue with the individual(s), then there may be more serious consequences.

In my limited experience working for Qatar Airways, there have not been any terminations without just cause. There are other aspects of working here which bear closer examination (and evaluation for potential employees), but unjustified termination does not, currently, seem to be one of them.

Edit to correct spelling

[glofish]

- braking the company policy several time

... and the company policy or rules are set up by the CEO, somewhat aleatory, so there is room for anything ...

like dating hosties, leaving the country on days off, applying to other companies, not wearing the hat in taxis etc. :mad:

[Tritzo]

since when is it not legal to leave the country on your days off as cockpit crew, if you have a multi-exit permit? does cockpit crew have the same regulations as cabin crew? i havent heard of that yet.

[disagreeable]

You can leave the country on Days off.... you just need a Multi-exit-visa (500QR) and you get it after 3 months. Also, b4 3 months you have to ask if you can leave and get a single exit visa.

You are not allowed to date hosties. Get caught screwing the crew or if someone doesnt like you and reports your indiscretion, then you will have a very high chance of being sacked.

Cant live together with a opposite sex unless your married.

You dont need to wear a hat in the taxi. I have never been told about that.

You dont get sacked immediately for an unstable approach unless it was clearly blatent defiance of the SOP's. You will get questioned generally. But yes, sacking are high here, but partially can blame alot of the SOP's changes and the fear of more rumour and not enough facts.... this not enough facts is simply by the complete lack of communication problem here...... its company wide issue.

[Homo Ludens]

Goldfish, what you wrote is a bull's hit, if I ever saw one!
Cheers!

[salamalikum2]

Glofish is working for EK.:E

[givemewings]

Not to mention if you do decide to date a hostie, you can't even drop her off at work since there is a rule they cannot be in a car with any male not related unless a taxi or professional driver.

And since she has to be back in her apartment by 3am (even on days off) good luck getting some 'quality time' with her away from her flatmates!! :/

And some of the EK flight attendants think they have it bad- at least their personal life is (pretty much) their own business- unless of course they do something dumb enough to get in the papers... :E

The wearing hat in taxi might be a wire cross on the rule for cabin crew- hats on in buses/taxis even with curtains closed unless purser otherwise specifies.

I've had all this direct from both ex and current QR cabin crew, so they are not just rumours. It's a brave guy who decides to jump that fence, so to speak... I guess that explains a LOT about QR crew on layovers.... bahahaha.....