Yes PER returns from the east coast are not yet possible (unless a paxing sector is involved). Only ADL-PER-ADL. Yes PER base is a certainty, they're probably just concentrating on the SYD base moreso first. And now that cabin crew can 'cross-crew' on B737s and E-Jets in the same day/same trip, there's a quick efficiency in crewing hours there for the time being. Our pilots, however, can operate east coast returns due to their EBA, and often enough its the red eye too. Obviously the pilot PER base was to be set up ASAP as a priority, as pilots cannot cross crew, and paxing them over for shifts is both expensive and wasted hours.
In addition, have heard DTA is possibly out of the window - flat rate of $98 could be staying and is further being discussed. Let's ensure it stays for any sign-off past 2am as per the current agreement.
DTA isn't a bad idea or a bad thing, but for us at $3.30 it is. It will be stepping backwards. A higher amount would be forwards. But, be careful what most of us wish for... hopefully the calculated advantages of $98 outways the drop in layovers in the future - But, if this is significally going to happen, it will be time for the next EBA by then anyway and we can negotiate another compromise then, especially what's in our best interest at the end of the day. But at the moment, keeping the flat rate of $98 is best even with 'subtle' changes to our layovers.
I also want it to be clear that all of us really want Virgin Blue to be successful and really enjoy working here. The culture and its people are second to none. I also understand we are a business which needs to pull through these difficult times, but we have, as cabin crew, worked extremely hard not only at our day-to-day jobs, but also to acheive what we have with the current EBA. Therefore it is disappointing to see the current offers on the table but am thankful for this possible first compromise. 