Originally Posted by
Count of Monte Bisto
highfive - not sure there are many 'much higher qualified pilots are either waiting an interview' than the Monarch guys. Many of them have flown the A300 and A330 for years as both Captains and FOs. They also have countless sectors on Airbuses to their name - a very useful quality for long haul guys when take-offs and landings are in short supply.
Nothing unique about countless sectors on airbuses, any short haul bus pilot has this.
However, my point is that there is an extensive application procedure to go through with most airlines, inc VA. To then fast track a bunch of pilots, simply based on the fact they have time on type and are unemployed, goes against the philosophy of their selection process. A lot of Ex Monarch captains will have never experienced psychometric testing, as it was not common in the industry 20 years ago. A fast track process indicates that you have a higher chance of success than a similar candidate who has recently applied, with similar practical job experience.
Finally, if Monarch was still afloat, few of its pilots would be applying for VA, Easy et al. Wouldn't it be better, in the long run, for a company to take a pilot who is actually motivated & applying for a position in that company, not simply because they are on hard times? Several current Mid East B787 pilots are awaiting their VA start dates. Should they be under cut because another pilot is allowed fast track?