Working for CAL as an FO would certainly be challenging on all fronts....not a postion one would envy. I would hope you could get back to AC ASAP.
"CX pays less than CAL as a 744 freighter FO but the housing is the difference"
That is completely incorrect. CX for the same postion ie: FO would pay far more than than an FO with CAL. Only a very junior SO with CX would make less than a CAL FO.
"you could also be fired like the 49ers and then it would all be trivial anyways. CX offers more remuneration and AC offers job security!"
On the other hand, this statement is true and worth good consideration. You are a lot more exposed as an expat.
Meaw said.
"I also know guys who went there after C3 went under and are miserable (not necessarily because of the company but because they miss Canada, their family , friends)."
C3 went bankrupt !! You must be kidding.....from C3 to Cathay ? Ya, I'm sure it would be a terrible sacrifice.....missing friends and family is one issue but I know a few that are there, and there are only a handful and they all feel very thankful for the opportunity. One is almost ready for FRT'er command.....
I would think in a few years AC will be looking much better and perhaps quicker commands are forthcoming on the EMB'r, but if you want to live in YVR it would be a different story.
To each this own and as mentioned, make the best of any opportunity. It would be nice to seen good expansion and movement in every airline....