I agree it's a real shame, but their reasoning (AAWH) is that since there are no more Classics (@ PO only for now) they don't need FEs anymore. The ones who have a pilot certificate may upgrade to the right seat. 4 of them passed the eval and will go through training.
From what I understand JC offered 2 choices, a furlough with a 5 year recall (they could have made it 10 years, I don't think they'll ever see their seat again anyhow) or termination with (anybody correct me if I'm wrong) a couple months severance pay???
Now, what is happening today should be NO surprise to anyone, this was basically announced years ago and many had the "that'll never happen, the Classic is a money maker" state of mind (and in a way they're right many other outfits are making money with the Classic, but that's another story
). So while a few anticipated this, got their pilot's ratings and upgraded to the right seat (and another handful to the left seat) the majority preferred the "wait & see" attitude. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying "good for them", not at all, I'm just saying that it is NO surprise.
On the other hand, the PO FEs are pretty fortunate to be put on the street at a time where there is a demand for their experience at 4 or 5 outfits as we speak. It is no fun to start over BUT they have a good chance of finding a new home, not as good as they had it, yet still a paycheck.
Some Atlas FEs are becoming worried with good cause, the future @ AAWH doesn't look good for them either. A couple of friends there are starting to look around NOW and I think they're right. You want to look for a job while you have a job, especially when there is hiring on the equipment you're on.
Funny I have a feeling that FEs on both sides will end up in the same outfits fairly soon, but which side will be senior to whom when the last Classic at Atlas is parked? Not stirring the pot, just a thought for those who still believe in the "that'll never happen" theory
