Flybob,
Yep, ALWAYS paid, thru an outside agency (vacation, days off, the lot)...and quite handsomely too, as a senior check and training guy.
Personally know several folks who had a very difficult time collecting their dues. Bad reputation in the early days...seems better now, and it will HAVE to be if they are a UK carrier.
You sound rather dis-satisfied...having problems? You seem to have to keep defending yourself, or the concerned company.
