BBT, I don't know where you are based, but even getting your leave entitlement when and when you want it makes the abuse of seniority clear. If seniority is "bad" a "popularity contest" for entitlements is even worse. I in no way mean to be insulting, but to have a clerk - possibly one that has received a friendly bottle of wine - as the final arbiter of how and when I receive my entitlements is just wrong. In the absence of rules and answerability all you get is exploitation. And no, eager Ryanair joiners, it does not always work if you go to your pilot manager and explain - because while he may sort it out for you, it will be because he is able and willing to get involved in the politics, not because there are rules that are properly and fairly applied to all. What muppetry one gets used to!! I really must stop reading this stuff, all I get is cross.