First rule of flying when something goes awry is to not panic, then sit on your hands and evaluate what is going on around you. Sort out the issues from the clanging of bells, whistles, etc. Only with a clear head can you respond appropriately. Even with the negative press the online vote on the ninemsn site is stagnating at about 2/3s of voters suggesting that Qantas pilots are NOT over paid.
The reality is that this made a great headline and if we get sucked into responding to every little thing regarding pay then it looks like pay actually is the issue. We don't have as many opportunities as Qantas and we certainly don't have the same headlines. Qantas pilots on average salary of $150K seek 2.6% and job security is nowhere near as sexy as what has been proffered from Qantas management.
Whilst I acknowledge that 'perception is reality', we're not even halfway through the first round of a 12 round title fight. QF is throwing everything they have at this thing and if the PIA actually kicks off then these sorts of headlines are going to be 'old news'. Thats when AIPA will have more clear air to tell our side of the story. That's when we as crew have the opportunity to talk directly to our passengers- the ones whom we know pay for our jobs- and to cut out the BS media spin.
Don't panic, sit on your hands, evaluate what is going on and then deal with the issues.
Pilot unity is the key. I look forward to the continued support of most PPRUNE contributors.
