Is RBA heading for a meltdown
Do things look grim for RBA?
Cowpat is correct, it takes at least 6 months to train a new FO, or upgrade a Capt. This is made worse by the senior trainers who seem to think the only good training flights for them (I mean the trainees) is the long Syd and Bne trips. They used to think the Bne and Akl trips were of little benifit as the airspace and airport procedures were easy compared to Europe.
The ceo was once quoted when the pilots were working max hours, I dont give a F*@% as long as the flights go.
With some leaving, and many more possibly about to go, how will they operate the schedule. Will they still get there big bonuses if flights have to be cancelled.
Will the pilots be prepared to put up with working max hours and cronic fatigue again, now there are other jobs to go to. They reduced the allowable sick leave from 30 days to only 7 days a year. If you go sick due to fatigue, can they require you to go and get expensive medical checks at your own expense. Shouldnt the Doctor just come to the conclusion you are suffering from fatigue from unsustainable back to back longhaul flights, with few days off to recover at base or downroute.
The fact is with the cuts in pay and conditions made by this current management, and the exchange rates, you can make as much, if not more money as a capt on an A320, or B737 for a low cost carrier, than a capt on a B767 for RBA. Many of whom work less, more days off, home most nights, do not fly throughout the night (paxs dont want to fly shorthaul through the night) and no jet lag. this is after tax, and living where you want to.
The benefits of working as an Expat in Brunei are not worth it any more.
Interesting year ahead.