Only some of the pilots went to Netjets, that leaves at least 44 crew positions that are not manned, I wouldn't be surprised if the number of Crews is reduced to match the manning
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The MOD and Government always like to trot out figures on manning, but as they say "there are lies, damn lies and statistics!". Many figures include those in training, don't show those leaving at natural points, etc. Few show the true problems, after all that would make us look bad wouldn't it
ISTR the Army had a shortage of infantry in the late 90's, it was solved on the back of another Defence Review by reducing the establishment. With a new total to aim for the percentage recruited was similar to before the cut, no point trying to recruit as many as before
It wasn't long until the new manning shortage
Just a thought, if we are established for X crews and don't have them, can we have the cash that must be set aside to pay for them in the annual budget? After all we must be doing the extra work that they were needed for.