MJR - Bitter?!?!?!
flybe.com - yes, i know the new guys are being bonded for £13000. but look at it this way. tehy will join the company, paying £5000 up-front for a 146 type-rating. They will also start paying off their bond straight away.
In a few months, when they go onto the Dash, the bond (which they have already started paying) will still stand and cover the 'training costs' for the Dash.
In X years when the time finally comes round for them to move back onto the 146, they will not have to start a new bond, but will be given all re-current training as necessary.
So adding up the figures, they'll get 2 type-ratings for £18000.
Now take one of the FO's waiting to get on the jet. Whilst they're waiting, they're still paying off the £13000 bond they have on the dash (or £9000 if they started however long ago before it got changed). When they finally get on the jet, they will then be asked to re-bond for another £13000 to cover the 146 rating.
For someone who was on a £9000 bond - Total = £22000
For someone who was on the £13000 bond - Total = £26000
Big difference in the numbers!
I know of a few, who if given the choice, would pay the £5000 upfront when they finally get on the jet, or indeed take on a bond for just one year at a cost of £5000.