I’ll be honest and say I agree with a lot of what’s been written above, and I think people considering applying deserve a realistic picture rather than just the recruitment narrative.
The transition from a short/medium-haul freight mindset to operating a long-haul 777 has been challenging, and that shows in day-to-day life. Positioning is a significant part of the operation and there are occasions where crews spend very long periods travelling before or after duty with limited facilities. If you’re expecting traditional long-haul passenger-style rest and positioning, you may be disappointed.
For commuters, standby is something you need to think hard about. Short-notice allocations do happen and it can mean extra cost and stress trying to stay close to EMA waiting for a call. Some people manage it fine — others find it quickly wears thin.
On command progression: a lot of people joined with a very strong impression that upgrades were around the corner. The reality has not matched those expectations. Promotions have been far slower than many were led to believe, and it’s no secret that some good people are now leaving as a result.
Accommodation downroute is variable at best. There are decent layovers, but there are also places where standards are low and the choice of hotels seems driven almost entirely by cost. Hotels are often described internally as “eye-watering” in price, which inevitably gives the impression that crew wellbeing is viewed primarily as an expense to be controlled rather than an investment in the people operating the aircraft.
Fatigue and reporting are probably the most sensitive subjects. The system exists, but many crews would say that raising fatigue doesn’t always feel like a supportive process. Whether that’s culture, perception or both, it’s something applicants should be aware of.
None of this means the job is all bad — there are good crews and good flying — but anyone joining should do so with open eyes and realistic expectations. Speak to people currently doing the job, not just those selling it.