Hey QF Skywalker,
Not sure on the exact terms of the exchange. I know that they needed to get an even swap of numbers between the two airlines. That they will be leaving in March. It is a 2 year contract (I think that if you break it without special approval you lose your original job).
I also believe that you start in a junior position with the other airline- even if you held a higher rank at your current one.
Not sure if there was a minimum requirement for employment before you could apply, all costs are covered at your own expense --although I heard a rumour that Virgin Atlantic will be supplying hotel accommodation for a small period of time to let our crew settle in.
I think that once your application was accepted your performance monitoring was used to assess your suitability, as well as other things such as passenger compliments and complaints, excessive sick leave, and i believe that there was a small interview. (not sure though)
Anyway I will try to find out the correct details and let you know.
SMILE