Flew a DPI contract for BWIA in 99 to 00. DPI was actually the only contractor I've worked for that physically appeared at the beginning to assure a smooth start and actually showed up again mid contract. Pay, at the time, was about standard and DPI provided, through BWIA, full medical/dental. Really have no complaints.
As a professional contract pilot (8 short term contracts in the past 7 years)I still send out my paperwork to most of the contractors and have found, since 9/11, that all the pay levels are down. Some potential employers have taken advantage of the pilot glut. Brookfield Aviation is offering 2/3rds the salary for Tunisia seasonal contract, that was offered early last year. Contractair is offering half the money previously offered on the same contract with Tunisia. The biggest "smack" comes from Regionair, who was offering exactly double 10 months ago, what they are now offering.