I could not care less if US pilots come to Europe and fly as long as they have the appropriate work permits for Schengen area countries, UK or other EU states that they operate in. Should they be based in the Schengen area they are also required to obtain a residency permit, be liable for taxes and other wonderful things.
I could not care less what the Americans do as long as they don't take a SINGLE job away from a pilot from any of the EU countries or the European Economical Area, unless they meet the right to work and abode requirements and in that case the whole discussion is meaningless.
Unions and companies alike in Europe need to take strong action against the loss of jobs and work in Europe before it becomes too late. Take the issue up with your MP in UK or your representative in your home country as well as those sitting in Brussels and Starsbourg in EU parliament. I certainly have written to all, my parliament representative the EU parliament members from my country and our ALPA equivalent including the copy of this thread. Complain to your immigration, border guards about foreign crews operating without proper documents and rights (Express One learned the meaning of "Right to work" the hard way) in and out of EU.
It is totally useless to argue the point here, wont do any good. If one wants to save the jobs it's time for some hard line action.
Last edited by Atlanta-Driver; 19th December 2008 at 20:53.