Hows this for a scenario:
'Skimpy' is started up using Impulse model and AOC, the existing 14 717's and drivers. This is toped up by 9 new 738s crewed by mailine pilots.
Over 12 months the 717's are phased out and replaced by new 738's which come from the original QF capital expenditure of 6 billion. These are crewed by mainline, and the surplus Impulse drivers slot into mainline as S/O's.
Upside:
QF has existing 737 pilots ready to go as well as training infastructure. Impulse gives them the start up as well as AOC and excellent business model.
Mainline pilots keep the career prospects for junior pilots and the surplus drivers due to 'cannibilised flying' have a place to go. The "goodwill" of ALL mainline pilots is maintained as I believe that from the 744 down they are all concerned about this LCC issue and what will happen to Captains kids as well as being the 'the thin edge of the wedge'.
Impulse drivers get to swan around the world for a couple of years making about the same money, if not more for some, before getting back into a window seat. More importantly, they get job security that they have not had before.
Just a bit of lateral thinking.............
