Driver1. In previous posts on this subject you have been one of the more moderating voices. So it makes me appreciate the emotion that much more. I reread most of what you have written on pprune.
In previous topics I have explained the situation (and major differences) between the KLC/KLM integration and what is happening now. KLC pilots already had a fixed right to transfer. Some crucial alterations were done to this original clause and it has left an open sore that has festered for six long years now. KLM and the VNV have no deal in place that allows other pilots from other subsidiaries to take seniority with them when they transfer to KLM mainline. KLM UK is not the only airline that KLM owns or controls. A pilot from Transavia or Martinair takes with them no seniority when he joins KLM. So this is not a situation of the “arrogant” Dutch mistreating the “foreign” KLM UK pilot group.
As far as KLM and the VNV negotiating a deal that involves KLM UK without involving its pilots. From my understanding BALPA was involved and consulted every step of the way. We as KLM pilots were also not involved, our union did the negotiating. BALPA’s involvement means the same thing to me. If they would see showstoppers they would probably have told the VNV. Or maybe there is a hidden agenda at BALPA, but that is between you and your union. Wouldn’t harm the majority of BALPA members if there were industrial unrest or worse at KLM UK?
That is where I think KLM UK pilots will have to look. BALPA is your representative. They are there to negotiate all the ins and outs that are involved in whatever choice is made. I think it more than reasonable that you at least keep what you have, but BALPA is the one that can make that clear to KLM. We were told that BALPA was not unhappy with the deal.
The deal between KLM and the VNV encompasses many more parts than the KLM UK situation. I realize for its pilots it is by far the most important section. But it is but a tiny part of a whole range of issues.
For the 25-year veteran at KLM UK I don’t think much changes. He can just stay at KLC UK and fly out his career. On top of that his options widen. For the senior First Officers a transfer to BUZZ could see quick advancement. And for the junior person the same applies or a transfer to KLM mainline might be more interesting. I can’t imagine a 25-year veteran switching to KLM, he could have moved to a UK airline a long time ago. So the analogy of that veteran being junior to a 21 year old in theory is right, but in practice not realistic.
One of my original questions still stands. How is the integration of the BA regional pilots going into the BA mainlist? Are the BA regional pilots getting full or partial recognition for years of service?
Sorry for the length once again, but I can’t seem to get my point across with less words. Maybe not even with this many.
Regards, O.