All,
As JDA alluded too in an earlier post, there was a change in age legislation in 2006 concerning retirement ages for pilots. This saw an increase from 55 to 65. At BA, the first impact of this change will be reflected in retirement numbers next year when the first batch of the 55'ers now approach 65 and therefore leave the company.
As it stands, BA intend to recruit approximately 300 pilots this year, with a broadly similar number planned to join the business next year, in 2016, compromising DEP's and FPP's.
With the subsequent, modest, yet steady increase in retirements over the next few years, it would seem plausible that the FPP scheme will continue for the foreseeable future to supplement DEP recruitment. All in my humble opinion of course.
Best of luck to all.