Gday Horserun. Longhaul is really good.
I cant see this announcement changing the recruitment plans over the next few years. The 787-9 introduction is planned as a 1-for-1 replacement of the older fleets- 767/747. So at no time is there going to be any real increase in total fleet numbers or an increase in crew levels.
Im a bit out of the loop at the moment but have heard that there is quite a few guys on yes letters waiting for starts. It sounds like they have been told to expect a bit of a wait- Late this year/early next sort of thing. I wouldnt worry what is said though, crewing requirements seem to change at short notice. You just need to look at last year, AirNZ wasnt planning on employing again till 2009/10? and they ran about 6 or 7 interviews.