Five things to consider with the current AC:
- Financials. Not pretty and no improvement in sight.
- Imposed contract will place a cap on current wages and reduce benefits.
- The maximum flying age changes to 65 this December.
- Pay/fleet grouping will reduce training (and number of pilots required).
- Combination of previous two items alone will severely stagnate career progrssion for the next number of years.
The risk of going through bankruptcy proceedings again are fairly high. This would be a good excuse for the government to be able to discharge the maintenance facility obligations while eliminating the pension deficit (assuming the court would permit it this time around). Whatever emerged from the other side would be a sad reflection of a once proud airline.
Regarding the middle east carriers. Many of the Direct Entry Captains being hired at Qatar Airways are at the more stately end of the age curve and will be coming up against age 65 in short order. This has been done on purpose by the airline to allow the current crop of pilots the ability to move upward in relatively short order. Retirements combined with fleet expansion are guaranteeing a stellar career for those jumping into the fray during the next two years or so.
Get some jet experience, fast. Air Canada is hiring and gives excellent training. But the company that once valued employees is no longer there, and should be treated accordingly. Eyes wide open for other opportunities and jump ship before your craft submerges completely.