too long overdue.
It's like an overcooked sirloin: you wanted it rare and it comes well done. No chance to recover.
If (and it is a huge if) overseas bases would be on the table, just imagine:
EK would most probably offer it to newcomers (DECs) first, to attract a minimum of pilots who can tell the front from the rear of an aircraft. That would in turn anger the methusalems around here, who would ask to be the first for such a treat.
"No can do" will say EK, overwhelmed by the number asking for it (judging by the attraction Dubai has become, close to 80%) ..... and overlooked, the latter will leave even more rapidly ....
No. Dream on, they'd rather lower the standard to microsoft drone heroes, than open bases!