Short answer, yes, with an average family of 4 living in a villa; flats are exempt. Although, not entirely in EK's hands, the utility rates have now been reset by DEWA ( Dubai Electricity Water ) and even EK isn't competely sure of the rate structure. It appears to be another cash grab from DEWA with the gov't needing the extra income. Therefore, although likely small in most cases, extra payments are now probable with the increase in rates. It's another decline and unilateral change of the contract. The most prevalent and serious was the productivity change from 78 to 92 hours a couple years ago and now the extra flight hours to match. It saved the company millions but now costs them with an increase in sickness and a huge decline in morale. Most fleets are working to the bid window of 90 hours with no incentive or productivity pay ( overtime ). Better hope you can sleep at all hours of the day and night...
Last edited by Saltaire; 22nd Feb 2010 at 15:14.