DUB and ORK are the only legacy Aer Lingus bases.
LGW, IAD and BFS are the low cost bases in Aer Lingus.
All forms of renumeration (basic/sector/performance/overnight pay etc), pension, terms and conditions are far far poorer in these bases than in the Republic of Ireland. (Lower than Ryanair and Easyjet all-in). You have very little union protection either. You will operate to EU OPS limits as opposed to the legacy practices in the ROI.
Another point worth noting is that all of these vacancies are there because a tranche of senior boys were paid serious cash to leave. They still retain notional seniority and the ability to bid for any vacancies outside the ROI. At the same time the remaining pilots had their retirement age raised to 60 from 55. There is no expansion planned. So dont expect any early commands either.
A number of f/o's have been leaving recently as a result of this bleak career outlook. Mostly to the middle east, but some to Monarch, Virgin, BA and even Easyjet(!).
The airline is owned by staff, government, pilots (dont ask) and Ryanair. Nobody is interested in buying right now because of that toxic mix. The upcoming Irish budget wont help either your renumeration nor the company's business plan.
Anyone who does apply should check their contract carefully. I expect they will attempt to water them down even further, especially anyone entering the ROI directly.
IMHO The only people who should apply are those desperate to get home to Ireland (even then no guarantee) at any cost, and those without enough hours to go elsewhere.
Anyone within 5 years of command or longhaul shouldnt touch EI.
Alt Crz Green:
most of the current FOs are thus 10-20 years from command. Obviously expansion and resignations cam change things but newbies can bank on a very very long stint in the RHS.
Absolutely true.
This might read like an attack on EI but despite all its failings its still a pleasant place to work. I just want applicants to have their eyes open about their career prospects.