So, someone who joins at 25 etc, for 30 years and retires at 55 etc can then immediately rejoin for another 30 years? Foxtrot Oscar..!
This is what is happening.
Meanwhile, I fly with long serving/capable passenger SF/O's who after 9+ years are looking at a very long status quo before command courses recommence. Nobody can justify a single extension (pax/freighter) in the current climate.
Sh* t can all extendee's on expiration of their contracts now. The training and line flying work-load on all fleets is way-down so it is time to get rid of the old extendee "fat-cats". Most of them are the worst checkers/trainers on their fleets anyway.
The "loss of experience" arguement is a joke. If you look at the experience levels of BA or Emirate's trainers then you would discover that the new generation of Cathay trainers are the norm.
It is time for CX pilots to close ranks. Extendees must go. If further cuts have to be made, then seniority applies. Last in, first out.