air Japan
Orientexpress, here are some answers
1. So far, the company has been reliable with its commiment to the upgrades. All f/o's have been upgraded within the first 5 year contract at Air Japan, with a very high success rate. There is a pre upgrade assessment, where a couple have been held back.
Expect 5 years to upgrade, any earlier is a bonus, some have done it in 3 but don't plan on that. The requirements are the same as required to join the company plus a certain time on line, I think 2 years.
as for the future, who knows, but there is a good track record to expect it will continue.
2. if you take the cash, you have to arrange transport yourself. Be aware with the "C" class commute. If you live near a city served by ANA, you will be sent on an ANA flight, no choice. If you live in the USA, the domestic sector from there will be on a code share flight, ECONOMY class, as business class "is not available" in the US. First is seen as above "C" class. Despite that, the "C" class commute is a winner and a big attraction.
3. I doubt it. 250 PIC requirement ????
4.Dream on!
5. No tax paid in Japan
6. No bond as far as I know.