KAL's Surplus Crews
Memo from Korean Air's Senior Vice-President to all 747-400 Crews:
As you know there have been many changes to the schedule recently. SARS has caused a significant drop in passengers to and from most KAL destinations. As a result of reduced flights and a reduction in aircraft size on many other flights the flight hours projected for the B744 have dropped dramatically.
With this in mind the company will offer a one to three month leave of absence to any B744 Captain. The leave would commence in June and extend one to three months from that date. At the end of that period a simulator session to regain landing currency will be held if necessary.
The company will work out the details with the individual contractor. Items such as LOL or medical insurance will of course be continued. Only the basic pay during that time period will be eliminated.
Those wishing to take these leaves should contact KY Lee in writing by the May 15
In addition to this measure, scheduling will continue to dispose of excess vacation days over the coming months should the situation continue.
We thank you for your understanding during this very difficult time in our industry.
End of Memo
Rumour has it that 777 crews will follow and 747 Classic crews in the not too distant future!