At the moment you could get a command within 12 months at TUI. However that is the exception rather than the norm.
We will be starting MFF (mixed fleet Flying) this summer with a gradual introdution across the bases. I believe LTN and LGW are first with pilots flying either 737NG/757 or 757/767. (767/737 has not yet been approved).
This will mean that the more senior F/O's that have been holding out for a 757/767 command will probably change their bid.
IF the merger with First Choice goes ahead (and i don't see why it should fail), and IF they merge they seniorty lists then it will be Thomson Pilots who would lose out. Over half of Thomson pilots have joined since Jan 2003. There are approx 750 pilots on the list, (i'm around 330 joining in Feb 2003).
My suggestion to Thomson pilots is get a bid in for command now (next course isn't until Oct). Once Firct Choice are on board they me thinks the list will get longer (from the middle, technically 'jumping' the queue).
All this is of course going to be dealt with by BALPA over the coming months.
BB