On the 777, five trips a month is about the norm. Six is certainly a realistic possiblity. Rest assured (sic), you will be knackered.
Most of the 777s do not have bunks fitted for long-range work. Sixteen (the ERs) do, although it's a bit of a lash up at the back of First class. It is possible to get a reasonable kip though. Six of these jets will be fitted with the proper overhead rest area at some point. (I'll believe it when I see it.
)
To further Mr Ripley's comments (horses for courses though, I suppose):
Never done 6 trips a month.
Fair comment. As already mentioned, five is about the norm although six is a possibility.
Only been back to back on reserve.
Lucky. As a junior pilot, you'll probably be a Blind Line Holder (rostered) so you cannot be forced to "back-to-back". As a Trip Line Holder, you may need to bid for it to make CAP.
Most 777 trips are about +/-5 hr time change if not less (Middle East).
This is changing markedly. Keep in mind how much fuel costs and how little a 777 burns compared to a -400. The 777 will be operating the SIN/SYD service by the end of the year and is planned to operate the BKK/SYD and the SIN service in due course. Don't rule out a return to South America either.
Not so many long slips on the 777.
Ditto.
I guess life is different on the 744.
At the moment. The more long-range trips on the 777, the fewer long-range trips on the -400.
Oh and not many early starts either.
Also changing.
Last 2 months of full flying (and only 2 months of full flying this year) I achieved 14 clear days at home and 18 nights at home each month.
About normal.
I like it.
Good.
Pension is still rubbish though.
Couldn't agree more.