Maybe they have just had enough and want to get out before NATS change VR terms. Back in the late 80's (1989 actually) some friends of mine worked in the pits of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. The Coal Mining industry was dying and they took VR. Now they are ALL airline captains with VIR and BMI. Maybe nows the time for ATSA's to get out , retrain ,get a frozen ATPL and when all thats done get a job flying as the cycle will be on the upward curve by then.
I am not surprised so many peole want out.