Another sad day in the history of TCUK. I was there when it was JMC and got shafted by the management after 9/11. Redundancy was threatened and in the end I took the (small amount on offer) and went, deciding not to pay tax on it by accepting a Career Break option for 2 years. My theory was that they have shafted me once and the precedent was therefore set for the future. Sadly my prediction seems to have been correct. I know many pilots in TCUK and they have my sympathy, especially the F/Os.
What they need to be though, is united. After 9/11 there were too many "I'm alright Jack's" due to their perceived seniority position. They didn't give a toss about those of us at the bottom of the seniority list who were facing redundancy and thus the CC didn't really either (not enough support). The only ones who came out of it with any pride intact were the pilot managers who have since moved on and I will be eternally greatful to them for their efforts in keeping us on as long as possible and finding alternative positions for us.
I have heard that many Senior F/Os are looking elsewhere, be it BA, Virgin, EK etc as the prospect of such a long wait for command is galling. A number are on secondment over the winter with T-Fly. Don't be surprised if they look to join full time with early command prospects.
I wish all at TCUK good luck in the future.
PP