I do not post on this thread as I am not a pro, but this time it is different.
It seems that I have made the right decision not to fly commercially. A friend who is a captain in one of the airlines have arrange a jump seat ride for me, talking with the crew and my friend convinced me that the only way to kill an hobby and a passion is to turn it into a profession.
I am involved in aviation for many years now. In a previous life, while working for a large a/c manufacturing company the union called for a strike, they wanted improved pay and conditions. The company was heading into bad weather as a major project was on the balance. I have disagreed with the union and started my own campaign. I called against the strike and suggested that the work-force agree to an average of 10% reduction in salary if the management guarantee to avoid forced redundancies, I was the only one who was willing to do it, the rest thought that I was drunk. Ten months latter 18,000 people lost their jobs. It is in your power to change the way you work, one person can’t do it, all of you can. Do not be afraid to face the management, they can not operate without you and they can not replace you very easily. If your union (BALPA or whatever) is good for nothing it is up to you to change the situation, you have elected them, no one will fight you battles but you. Stop complaining and prepare your case, fight the
PR front, educated the public, only public opinion can make the CAA and your management changes the way they operate and you work. They will tell the world how much you earn, be ready to tell them that you are willing to wave some of it in return for rest time (don’t worry, the pay will go up 4 years latter anyway). There will be casualties on the way, you, yes you, the one who reads it might be one of them. Are you willing to fight for your beliefs and professional pride? No? Then do not complain.