Reading into it....
The 20k is taxable, we'll be lucky to see 13k, if you decide to leave before your 22, (pvr, lose flying cat, get a commission in a non-aircrew branch etc) you have to pay back the full 20k. Nice.
The 4 and 71/2 bonuses are going to free up cash for the PA spine and the 20k. (from the horses mouth that one)
In 2005/6 the comparative flying pay will be looked at, (not nessesarily awarded), and my boss, officer type, has been told to expect a pay cut around then. Not all bad then.
The 'empowering' of Masters means they will effectivley do the jobs the F/L's do as crewman leaders/ Aeo's, so guess what? Less commisioning opportunities. (unless you go ops support)
Promotion to F/S no longer coming with an offer to 55. Can't have us slacking.
Maybe I'm wrong and it is a good thing.
Or on the other hand maybe it's frozen toblerone time....bend over.
