The referral scheme was introduced only very recently.... Actually it has been brought in on the 13th of October of this year just in case someone wonders if having a mate inside could have made a difference.
Personally I knew nobody at all and certainly wasn't in the Squadron. On the other hand the friend I have recommended using the newly introduced scheme has been told that FO recruitment was now over (meeting all the requirements).
So what does it tell you ? Well that it is better to know no one than knowing me
.
I believe that Easyjet has a similar "recommend a friend scheme" without the money though. Also I have seen a few application forms asking if you knew someone inside (CX if I recall correctly) so what would that be for ?
Sorry but the only exceptional things I see here, is that the company will pay us for bringing in a new pilot (alive I think). I can't really complain about that but I don't think I am going to make a fortune either.
So in conclusion what all that tells me, it is that we must be pretty desperate... Good news for all !