Puzzle me this....
BBD06 there is no clear cut answer but for what its worth heres how I see it. The likes of BALPA and the IPA cannot be under emphasised in presenting a united front, although they seem to lack proper representation and a firm resolve. But the real answer lies with us. As we climb the ladder in our careers we will certainly become more influential with some of us even becoming management
But with this influence comes the responsibility and opportunity to make a difference. We must ensure our employers understand that a happy workforce is a stable workforce, a stable workforce is loyal and productive workforce. How many of us have said that it would only take 'this or that' and this job would be superb. It doesnt take alot, nor does it have to cost the earth - Southwest is an example of this at its best. People (the staff) are recognized as the reason the airline is successful and rewarded, and treated, accordingly.
Regarding the whole issue of training and the associated costs there are 2 points here. The cost to the company and the value of that investment to them. Airlines need to be realistic about how much initial and recurrent training is going to cost them and factor this in to their finances. To put their running costs on to their staff as a way of making a financial saving is certainly not going to instill loyalty
However it is fair that an employer expects to get something for their investment and to this end bonding on a pro rata basis to cover the costs incurred is the fairest way to achieve this. Of course the question is, is it really necessary? Not if the airline has become an employer of choice!
Is it reasonable to put pilots on reduced pay during line training or, like easyJet, for the first 6 months after check to line? Absolutely not!
They are being as productive as anyone else, it is this kind of attitude that undermines the whole employer/employee relationship. I am still at a loss as to how BALPA allowed this to happen.
Bat.man, I fully concur with your argument for tax breaks, both to employers and employees. This is an area for the unions, although against this chancellor I wish them luck!
So guys and gals, make your feelings known, but dont just complain, offer solutions. Most employers are wiley enough to understand my basic economic principals
and want nothing more than a stable workforce. Recruiting costs money - its a vicious circle, lets break it