Contract pilots
Most that I know became contractors because they had to. Attempts at being re-employed with the employer failed so they are contracting because they have to. Sure the pay rate was quite good but they had no pension rights, security of employment or any other benefits. Also, the pay rate stayed static despite increases in tax, costs etc.over several years. Also no severance pay so some will be hurt badly. Getting rid of them constitutes a great waste of experience. When will the employer learn?