Originally Posted by
Talktotopper
Let’s say I could get a LOA at a regional in Canada. I LOVE the heat (like seriously love hot temperatures). Not looking to settle down. Not a complainer whatsoever.
Is there still money to be made in the sandbox? Are the younger single guys enjoying it? It’s hard to find positive information because most people only come on online forums to complain. I imagine there are some happy guys out there.
Is the Middle East just best avoided with the changing political climate? Seems like they’re finally running out of money there. Then again, Dubai is a geographically important hub. Is that enough to keep things going?
Thoughts?
I spent 15 years there after the demise of my former company. The LOA would be a show stopper as EK still demands a letter from your current company confirming your resignation, they follow this up with a call to your HR department and chief pilot as well. The bond for new hires is 5 years and it takes 7 years to be able to take 100% of your provident fund home with you. Commands are still on the 5-7 year mark but that is destined to change as EK embarks on a new "business plan"..you will have to figure out what that means.
As a single guy you would be able to bank money every month as long as you don't fall into the trap of buying an Aston Martin and all the other high priced crap that will assist you in leaving the Middle East with nothing but fatigue. A lot of guys who arrive single end up leaving with a girlfriend or wife from somewhere else on the globe who may not want to settle in Coldada...even the west coast! There will be many little such things that will rear their heads as you spend time in the ME.
If it was me, knowing what I know now, I would be inclined to join Air Canada. You can achieve a command within 3 years now and they are hiring like mad. You get to stay close to family and friends, fly 14 days per month or less and if you want heat, then bid for a long stretch of time off with a bidding system that actually works then go to Cuba for 3 weeks of tequila and beaches with lovely cuban ladies on them.
As for the rest of the complaints about EK and the other 2, just know that generally where there is smoke, there is fire. We all thought things would get better but after 13 years they never have and certainly never will.