@Laker
Perhaps so but only in numbers. The stark reality is that EK offer pilots a lot more in terms of housing (choice between good EK appointed housing or an allowance in lieu) with all utilities paid for. Also, schooling is covered as EK have debentures with many Dubai schools which allows kids almost no hassle first place entries. No waiting and no fees which is all covered by EK. Also, flights home are a big bonus. ID 50 and ID 90 along with a free flight home once per year for u and family. Time off is great (well at least for some of the FOs I know, can't say the same for Captains). And that's the way it should be.
The GCAA have continuously confirmed to us that they absolutely do not understand our work. Traffic levels have soared and will continue to do so, no pay rises whatsoever only pay reductions with ATCOs having to bear the brunt of excessive rent rises and cost of living. Housing allowance discontinued, no schooling, and health insurance providers changing on a whim. No 22 annual leave days per year reduced from 34. This equates to yet another pay reduction. More traffic, more stress, less money in the pocket to live off and a continually lowering moral.
No CVs on the desks and people seriously considering a move. This isn't idle chit chat and people will walk if given the opportunity.
All this and you've got one very pissed off bunch of controllers controlling YOUR aircraft.
HR have no idea what they have allowed to happen. The whole idea of time off for pilots and controllers is that they can use the time to get away from what has traditionally been a stressful job. Come back rested and continue to do what we all love. There are a whole lot of issues around leave including fatigue. No understanding and not expected either.