EY may not be perfect, and Yani has raised a few valid points. However from the amount of complaining from EK pilots on this forum, EK isn't perfect either.
Look at the airline and how it suits YOUR particular circumstances. Three and a half years to upgrade ??? How long for a new joiner in QF, CX, BA etc. Ten + years in the right hand seat isn't too bad if you're 22 when you join, not so if you're 45.
Transport to work may not be provided but taxis are cheap, and parking is free if you want to use your own car. Family need two cars ? Buy a ten year old Corolla for US$2000 for the airport.
EY have an end of service benefit of 35 days basic pay for each year in the company, not fantastic but better than nothing.
EY allow you to request either a particular trip or 4 days off in a row each month. EK have bid groups, but see thread concerning max days off in a row, commuting now very difficult.
EK exchange rate protection scheme only protects a percentage of your income by a certain amount, once again see thread on this forum.
In your FREE apartment accommodation central aircon is provided, leaving you with a small bill for lights and water. Not so in the villas where in summer the utilities will cost an arm and a leg.
EY aim for 750-800 hours a year and pay less than EK. EK pilots earn more but complain about fatigue from ULR and max hours.
Yes, a few bad points with EY but then what airline doesn't have any ? If you can't live with them apply elsewhere. If anyone finds the ideal mix of work, family life, salary, benefits etc please let the rest of us know.
