Merry Christmas!
Gentlemen,
It is time to sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. The simple reality is that the very senior management have absolutely no idea as to the present state of their workforce. Just have a look at the communications that are being presented on intracx.
Take for example the recent spat with the FAU and local staff regarding the prospective medical changes. CX stated unequivocally, that they were going to carry out these changes regardless of the feedback of the members. After the threat of FAU action and the subsequent involvement of the Labour Dept, they have been rescinded in the short term. Communications state that CX is pleased with the change. Heard from a very senior ISM that someone now has a new job. Oh Oh
Or, the recent congratulations to everyone for their hard work and the provision of the 13th month. All the based crews and outport staff don't receive this benefit, but I guess no one told the communications staff.
Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus and his name is attrition and yes, it is really hurting. Someone was advised by CC recently that they were "critically short of crews". And Crew Contollers, I understand. A number of FO's I have flown with stated openly, that they are actively looking. They have realised their pay and conditions are similar to companies in their home countries. Moreover, the other local carriers are even offering better pay and benefits to our locally employed pilots.
Gents, CX have sh....t themselves, are sitting in it and haven't a clue what to do. They are choking on the very contracts they imposed in the first place. When was the last time you heard the term "market forces"? They are of course talking tough, but are really worried about legal action in the based ports given the recent Crofts case in the UK. Imagine if the imposed contracts of 99, where we lost our 13th month, were ruled illegal in a basing jurisdiction. Just think, 9 months of back pay with interest. Why do you think it has taken so long to carry out the onshoring? Yes, they are worried.
It is going to get very interesting very soon and you will have a front row seat. Enjoy!