Forced Leave EK April / May 2019
I'm surprised at the lack of commentary about the upcoming enforced leave program at EK. Personally, it reminds me of getting furloughed, as we are being removed from the premises against our will at the convenience of the company for their benefit. Decimating the leave banks of 1000 pilots (about 500 CA and 500 FO according to the company newsletter) during the runway closure may be good for the Company's books - it eliminates a large monetary liability from the accounting just before the financial year closes - but it comes at a cost to those who will now never be able to avail that leave for useful purposes. Also the corresponding pay-cut during the "furlough" - since all will lose at least DHS4,000 in flight and productivity pay and per-diems will have a negative effect on many pilot's personal finances going into the summer here.
These are just my thoughts on the topic, maybe others have a more positive view, taking time off, though unwanted, may be a stress relief that justifies the personal financial losses for many, and hence why there is no discussion of the matter here. Or maybe it really will improve rosters going forward since nobody will have leave to take later on which must be covered by those still working? So far, those I have met who have had this leave thrust upon them at short notice seem strangely neutral about the topic. Any thoughts?