Hi Folks,
coming to this thread late so apols if this has already been said (not going through 4 pages to check).
Bonds are illegal. (long pause for effect)
If you are an EU citizen and working in the EU, it is illegal to restrict anyone's ability to move throughout the EU full stop. Bosman sorted it for the soccer (hooligan) employees and all someone needs to do for the aviation (non hooligan) employees is to bring a test case to the european court. Suggest BALPA or other such body do so on behalf of crew.
Just because all employers in aviation have a bond system dosent mean that it is legal. I have personnally been bonded and left my employer without paying it back. They swore that they would persue me to the ends of the earth for the outstanding debt and vowed that I would never work in the industry again. That was three years ago and I am still working - not a penny paid back and not a peep from the said employer!! All thanks to my clever brother who knows the law.
Bonds are illegal - dont pay
happy new year to all
(up the dubs - 2008 Allireland champs)