NC,
So if CX starts hiring DEC tomorrow, you would be totally OK with it? (and please don't tell me the contract doesn't allow it, because we ain't got any contracts)
You're perfectly OK with the current situation is because it is NOT affecting YOUR career progression.
On the topic of BYPASS PAY: We are NOT ELIGIBLE for bypass pay until Cathay gives you the "tech interview" (interview again to upgrade). You could be CAT A (hoop #1), but until the interview (hoop #2) has been GRANTED and that you passed (hoop #3), and that the REVIEW BOARD gives you the thumb's up (hoop #4) you CAN NOT be classified "suitable for upgrade" hence, NO BYPASS PAY.
Cathay going to give a few hundred S/Os bypass pay to work 9 days a month?