Originally Posted by
Denti
If you have the hours, the much easier route is to get a command elsewhere and then apply as a DEC. That is a lot easier to do than the internal upgrade process which can take quite a few years and is ultimately in key moments completely dependent on the likes, dislikes and sometimes flawed understanding of company procedures. Especially the base captain, who does not need to be a trainer, has a very important role to play, without any real oversight at all, basically, he determines the fate of every first officer and is the ultimate power in his base.
The base captain is over seen by the HQ in Luton. All command interviews are follow a 'Standard' format now - if you study and put the expected effort in then you will encounter no problems or surprises. The whole process is well documented and if you seek feedback from your base you will know exactly what each phase entails. Yes, some will give you a bit more of a grilling, but I have yet to hear about someone who worked hard, was a god pilot and had a good attitude who was stopped in the process.
If you are not yet a Captain then a few years in eJ as a co-pilot gives you time to absorb the company procedures, see how eJ Captains perform in the sim and prepare yourself. The DEC recruitment and selection rate is pretty low; by numbers alone far more Co-pilots are recruited than DEC. I wouldn't suggest that it is easier to go to a 'quick upgrade' outfit and then expect to stroll in as a DEC at all - the good times are almost over and expansion looks like it's slowing down already. Remember, eJ only tend to take DEC if they cannot promote from within, bar a few base specific exceptions.
As regards Italy, MXP and VCE have longs lists as the contract and tax arrangements in Italy are very favourable. Don't expect DEC in Italy any time soon, or ever I would suggest.