You guys keep making the argument that it was a disaster the last time they took DEC's, sorry but the numbers just don't back that claim, 20% failure rate is actually very good compared with all other companies that hire DEC's what do you think is the pass rate at KAL? Asiana? Air Japan? Sin Cargo? And about how they will be welcomed, It is the same story at every DEC job available out there, they will thrive and earn the respect of their colleagues just like you will if and when you move on from EK, because as an expat there is no permanency in ANY job, at some point you will want to have some variety in your life and unless you go back to UCAL at the bottom of the pile earning next to nothing, you will also go for a DEC position. The upgrade program will continue guys, you don't seem to realize that they will need DEC due to the growth, you will get your turn, is not either or, it's both.