a few years ago EK took a group on ANZ pilots on a contract
It was a 3 year contract, with the 3 years beginning after clearance to line. I'm not 100% sure, but I think they have all gone back or are in the process of going back now.
This happened when EK was very short of pilots, so it could happen again. I believe it was arranged at management level. It suited ANZ as they had a surplus of pilots at the time & it suited EK as they were short.
The 3 year timeframe was interesting. At the time EK was running approx 3 years to command & I am of the opinion that EK intended to dangle the command carrot in front of them in an attempt to get them to resign from ANZ & stay at the end of their contract. But 3 years is along time in this business, things changed & the guys I have spoken to seem to be pleased that they are heading home to their old job.