Scroggs,
Kerfuddle may not be that far off the mark. Look at the CTC/easyJet deal. The succesful candidates will be on "cadet salary" for 7 years, so even as a Captain they will be on a lower salary, for the same level of responsibility.
I get the impression that every time there is a downturn in the industry the airlines see it as an excuse to erode further the Terms and Conditions of aircrew. As we have discussed on other threads, there are other avenues open to people, which allow for similar or greater income levels as aircrew for less financial input and personal sacrifice.
72k for an ab-initio fATPL course? At some point people just will not be able to justify the risk/benefit equation. Word on the street is that the number of people starting training is falling, and one of the "big" schools is going to be a victim at some stage.
Anyway, merry Christmas to all, and happy birthday to you Scroggs.
