It's only a matter of time before VA start parking 777's and discover how important SO's are. The plane won't depart without them, despite the never ending list of primary crew volunteers who love bragging about have much cash they are making from draft days and overtime. Special bunch, talk about choosing your audience.
Always got me buggered why guys do the company a huge favour to get a flight away and work days off whilst getting reamed on a 2011 expired EBA. Talk about losing sight of the big picture for short term personal gain. Just in case anyone is wondering why the company didn't want to release their remuneration package to the troops, rumour has it the offer is 1.5% 2.0% 2.5% They will need to move that decimal point to the right one spot and reverse those percentages to stop a mass exodus from the SO ranks.
Most SO's are now previous regional captains or jet guys and mostly tertiary educated. They are far more qualified and experienced than the first bunch and will be in demand. SO's are already beginning to leave with many more about to go and this is before QF has even commenced hiring off the street. Can already picture the mad rush to try and find 457 recruits.
When was the last time a 777 was parked up against the fence due to lack of crew? Interesting times...