Assuming that all Merlins go Navy and a new buy of Chinook happens, who the hell is going to crew them all? Even SAR are ramping up to 28 crews from 24/25 (most of who will probably jump ship and leave when SAR-H happens from 2012). The vast majority of PA aircrew are now beyond their 5 year lock-in clause and can leave without penalty. Also, I gather that recruitment from civvy street has all but dried up at the moment.
Perhaps there is a new retention bonus in the offing...the last manning presentation I saw (6 months ago) confirmed that they were under serious consideration.
Can we start the bidding at 100K? Any takers?
I'll get my coat (cashmere of course)...
