So, in other words, when we are talking about front line output, we are actually at 62% then, bearing in mind, comparing apples to apples, we are talking about retaining operational output creators (the pilots) and not the remainder whom occupy non operational staff roles that could in reality be filled by INZPIRE? I guess those are the individuals the gubbermint are interested in, when we consider "pilot retention""? Granted, there are essential flying execs, without whom safe flying supervision would not take place, but even assuming 1 supervisor for every 10 sqn mates, you only account for what, another 6-7%? another couple of % for OOA. but certainly, the remainder will account for a significant skew in the stats.
How can you say that ex-mil wont be on significantly more than at present, when lads who have left very recently, in SFO positions, are regularly hitting the top rate tax bracket? Simple fact is, multi branch guys are regularly hitting that. As are some FJ mates who are flying for a few years. Whilst maybe not 120k+ in 3 years (some are doing that though) it's certainly a better lie-of-the-land than what we find ourselves in the mob.
I cannot see how the 52% works out at all, as from my sums, the 21% including personal contribution that you will have at the likes of BA or VA, will give you a much bigger net pensionable wealth at 65 than you will ever get on the AFPS15 PA pension. That includes allowing for a 75% contract after 10 years (age 48). This is, of course, also accounting for drawing a pension at IPP 16/38. This does not not account for christmas bonus, family and friend staff travel, ID75/ID90, cheap duty free, free healthcare and discount Bupa typically for immediate family, loss of licence cover, discount HOTAC and the ability to put a realistic tax rebate in for business expenses. Oh, and being paid the 44p per mile accepted in business for motor mileage allowance as opposed to a rate that doesnt cover fair wear and tear.
As for housing, the contract is about to get torn up (nibbled to death by ducks). Annington will soon charge MoD market rate, there will be a new scheme which will be sold as great for everyone, whereas actually, it will be pants.