A friend on the Airbus who joined several months behind me has been given an JFO course early Mar. I have yet to hear about a 777 course for myself...the rumour is end of April or beyond.
So, there definitely is a problem with 744 SOs being delayed for upgrade.
I too am wondering why I am a member of the AOA and seriously beginning to wonder why I am in this airline.
However, Merry Christmas to everyone anyway...