I don't mean to be negative or to support any particular business model, it's just the way I see it after 15 years in this job, and after a couple of economy crises. So for you with families and commitments think long and hard before leaving even the future possibility of a permanent contract in one of the biggest and most profitable companies in Europe.
Well, after 27 years in this job let me offer a different perspective.
327 payrolls, and not a single one of them was ever as much as one day late.
A family brought up on the back of an excellent salary, pension scheme, allowances, health benefits and insurance programme.
Nearly three decades of full time unbroken employment.
Sickness that didn't result in the loss of any salary, ever.
Compassionate leave that meant picking up a phone and speaking to the chief pilot. An airline that provided me with airline tickets and hotels and as much time off as I needed without question.
Opportunities for a variety of flying.
This is a private company and as any of you who have your own private companies know, profits (on which taxes are assessed) are rarely ever spectacular. Losses are always extremely unwelcome, however they can be carried forward and utilised to good effect. I am only aware of this company making losses in two years of its 43 year history. There is an intensive programme to reverse these losses and expand the business. The shareholders and the employees are all as committed as ever to ensuring the business resumes its strong position in the market.
It is true that you never know what is around the corner, but it is also true that a lot of "big strong" companies have crashed out of the game in the last three decades. This is a relatively small business (in airline terms) but owned by a few very wealthy people. It is a private company that sits within a portfolio of other private companies thereby spreading their risk.
If it is not for you, then don't apply. But you would be very foolish to underestimate the strength and commitment of the business, as well as the loyalty and commitment of those who are a part of it.