Well to set the record straight, I am not in line to take anyone's job. But I do see it as a rhetorical question. At it might be a tough one to answer. But first a question to you, what seeds did the US DECs sow? Retiring from failing carriers and trying to preserve some of their retirement? Are the DECs causing trouble over there other than all being totally incompetent according to mensa?
Mensa asked why they were coming here instead of a position somewhere else. A tough one, admittedly. EK roadshows addresses this in that the arrival of the aircraft would be delayed if not for DECs. Believe them or not. Are any aircraft sitting because lack of crews? If so, that would seem to bolster their case, that if aircraft are parked even WITH DECs, then without them, more would be parked. Mensa went on to say, why not take a position more suitable for their lifestyles. A DEC is a DEC, whether it be Singapore, EVA, ANA or anywhere. Perhaps the local Emiratees feel you have taken their job by coming in to their country, setting up housekeeping and waiting for your upgrade that perhaps should have been theirs. But you might say the airline would never be what it is today without the expats of all ilks coming in. Make the same argument for DECs. Just a different ox being gorged. With more aircraft comes more flying, with more flying it requires more captains and at some point it will balance out. But with what is being said, it will be around 100 or so DECs coming in, around 8% of the total pilot roster. Is that right? Okay, 100 too many in your opinion. 100 f/os not being upgraded in a timely manner.
I guess the question still stands, why do they think they can come in over you and take your job? It appears it is like that everywhere there are not strong unions. I guess the only answer is to talk to your shop steward/union representative. Harsh, I know, but reality. Are they really taking your job or just delaying you upgrade? And would the upgrade be delayed because of no crews for the lack of timely aircraft delivaries. Remember, upgrade takes two training events, DECs only one. I know you can't be convinced, but maybe a different point of view. Oh yeah, they already did jump ship, just looking for a raft. Do you have a problem with just the US DECs or the ones from Germany, Gulf Air, South American carriers or even EVA?
IXNAT