It does not seem that long ago that
VB pilots where weathing out the GFC flying for PB. I was lucky enough to fly with some of those guys in NZ and found them to be humble, professional and down right good blokes (can only remember flying with one ********). No one at PB seemed to care because it was helping secure their company’s future. The same is true of the current Qantas situation. It is a once in a life time opportunity for JB. While on a personal level I feel for all those involved at Qantas. Clinically there is a short but definite window of opportunity for Virgin Australia to increase its market share.
Please comment on the following.
1-As I understand the PB pilots will be given additional cash over and above their nz money so they are not undercutting us in Australia. In fact if you factor in accommodation and travel they probably cost the company more than Australian labour.
2-The PB pilots are being instructed by their union that its ok to apply for the short term Australian domestic work.
3-The PB pilots are being told the Australian unions are aware and understanding of the limited Oz domestic flying
4-As nose wheel first has mentioned the need for additional aircraft is now, and the paperwork required to allow Australian crew to operate ZK aircraft will take a while. Waiting for this will cause the company to miss the window of opportunity.
5-Some of the whining on this tread is being written by people who do not appreciate the magnitude of what is going on in the marketplace, or do no care about anything other than when their command is coming up. Some of you have been flying red jets for less time than PB crew.
I’ve had many a beer with PB/
VB/Voz pilots on overnights. One thing that seems to set us apart from our institutionalised mates from other airlines is that we generally get on.. Yep sometimes the gap in pay, conditions, lifestyles and promotions can cause interesting discussions, but I’ve never seen an argument. Generally we respect each other, and acknowledge we work for the same group. What is good for the group is good for us under our current management. Provided there is no undercutting and this PB domestic thing is short term and good for the broader company I don’t see a problem.