TSI....
Emirates do bond, to the tune of US$36k over three years for the 777. A small percentage of their requirement will be Virgin Blue boys. (and I do mean boys, their first fairer sex pilot is yet to materialise) They are lucky to get 20 a year at present rate. The numbers for
VB are close, but there will be more like 200 over two years due Embraer, and more than most estimate to the 737.
The projected numbers for Virgin's 777 are perhaps on the slim side, as they've been predicated on operating with only 3 crew trans-Pacific. Count how many on a QF Syd-Lax flight deck... Try getting that one past CASA. Reduced crew complement may work aft of the reinforced door...
Might I just suggest that anyone applying for
VB aim squarely for the Boeing fleet. If the current proposal is passed, FOs on the EMB will start on 50% of EMB Capt pay, which is in turn 80% of 737 pay, ie only 40% of the current Capt wages, after purchasing a rating that's not nearly as useful in the broader market as the cheaper 737 qualification.
Think folks, think.