When mainline are threatening people with termination in their contract if they don’t bid for shorthaul on day 1, plus even JQ can’t fill per and syd commands. There is no hope for second tier operators. They need to stump up the cash or close their doors.
After all, a mainline FO on year 1 pay can expect mid 200s or even higher if they chase. A JQ captain can earn north of 300k if they also work hard.
However the worm has turned. It’s all about lifestyle these days. No one wants to live in an aeroplane. We got stood down during covid and many of us realised there is a life outside of aviation. One that is equally fulfilling.
One that won’t cause you to be dead at 67.