Ha ha, no, it's the only dates that were quoted.
I can't disclose the source, obviously, but it is reliable. There are only a handful of people who know the exact number of leavers and whether that figure has increased recently, only they will know. However, the 10% being banded about is an exaggeration.
What is clear, regardless of the actual % figure, is that the attrition rate is of huge concern. Not only in crewing aircraft, but in attracting experienced pilots to replace those that leave. We are starting to become the 'Ryanair' of the Middle East with an ever increasing number of low hour pilots joining. This is not inferring disrespect in anyway to those employed by Ryanair, merely that the dynamics within the airline has changed. Our Captains are becoming less experienced and often with a commensurate lack of confidence. We are starting to become an 'on the job training airline', something that many new Captains are ill equipped to handle. We rarely, if ever, offer feedback and very few F/O's ask for it. Poor performance and attitude, as well as reduced knowledge goes unchecked. Basic handling, taxying and operating skills become less common. Even simple descent planning becomes difficult for those unfamiliar with jet energy management or those over reliant on VNAV. Crew are not being encouraged big picture but are trained to detail by new trainers, keen to demonstrate their knowledge. Combine this with the very challenging environment in which we operate, and the holes are being lined up nicely. The increasing number of marginal passes and failures during training supports this. Further, Add in the number of experienced TRE's leaving and the mess is multiplied. This has become a major Flight Safety concern in my opinion.
It's not pretty!
Harry
Last edited by harry the cod; 8th Mar 2017 at 12:07.