Otterman
First of all thankyou for taking the time to contribute to this discussion - it would be easy to walk away.
In respect of seniority I must disagree with you completely.
I was a junior(ish) Captain on the F100 when I resigned three years ago. I was also in the top third of the Air UK seniority list.
When I was making my decision to resign and join another company I thought long and hard about it. I listened to what the KLM management were telling us and did not see a very bright future for myself (despite my seniority). I moved in order to maintain my quality of life and give my marriage a chance of surviving.
If I had stayed I would be in the same position now and with minimal/non existant chance of transferring to Buzz (my preferred option).
Since I have moved companies 99% of what I guessed would happen has actually happened and I certainly do not regret moving.
In the time I was with Air UK it was never going to win 'Airline of the Year' awards but it certainly wasn't the worst by a long, long way. It was also generally profitable and had an expanding route network (albeit not involving Amsterdam).
KLM uk is but a shell of the former AirUK.
The VNV are only protecting their own jobs and I wish BALPA had even a fraction of their power but a bit of compassion and a degree of respect is not too much to ask for your future co-workers.
All the best.
Tot ziens.