I honestly think it is too late really. easyJet have their flexi crew system for new F/Os and now Jet2 are now effectively offering summer only contracts with reduced pay. The list of new schemes will only get longer and the number airlines that copy and follow suit will only get longer too.
I would personally not shed a tear if I turned my back on the airline industry and moved into the corporate world. At least the treatment of crews does seem to be slightly better when compared to what the airline industry offers. I have only been airline flying for six years but I have many more left. I have noticed a marked change in conditions for crews in those six years. I dread to think what mess the industry will be in 10 years from now, never mind twenty or thirty!
A friend of mine who is at easyJet has recently been off on maternity leave. I was totally astonished when she said to me that she has been informed that she has to pay for the privilege of a jump-seat trip for familiarisation purposes, prior to her getting back in the seat.
Have we all gone barking mad or do I need to wake up and adjust to the 21st century?
