Yes, now we're getting somewhere. BJ, quite agree, I'd take less if the COST of living and lifestyle were lower and better.
For you old, bold pilot's out there and for those with a memory. A Helo' drivers salary AND conditions have deteriorated to the point that they are lower than that of a First Officers on a plank who probably has 200-700ish hour's, not as experienced, probably not ex-mil etc. Probably not having to succumb to some sort of roster involving unsocial hours, you better than most should know that SKYCOP!
From my humble experience, I reckon we have regressed over 10 years. I left a 5 day a week, daylight hours only job in 1989, on 25K.
I was offerd a job a short while ago flying a twin, night/day roster, less than 20 days leave,no benefits to speak of, for 29K !! No wonder the post is still vacant!
Anyone ever followed the US and their salaries? R&W do an annual salary review. Don't think anyone would dare do one in the UK! In 1992 I visited extensively in the US and reckoned they were getting dollars for our pounds. I now estimate we are averaging a third behind them and look at the positive state of their economy, back to BJ!
AND the CAA/BHAB/Employers tell us we don't need an IR, meanwhile we still see IMC type accidents!
So what is the answer guy's?
I'll put the orange box away now!!!