Ken
I fully agree on the carrot and stick approach. I think what we need is an aircrew professional managed pathway - for all types of aircrew. The use of Enhanced Learning Credits, Standard Learning Credits, accredited learning, preferred suppliers with military discount, the use of Service flying clubs and the removal of the stigma of doing civilian licences will definately help. Also, growing some of our own rear-crew into pilots that will bring with them plenty of experience into the front seat. It won’t fix things over night, but the development of such a pathway will help people manage their own expectations, allow them to be up front with the Service about their aspirations, improve their professional knowledge for the efficiency of the Service and mean that they don’t feel the need to rush off as soon as the get a CPL/fATPL/ATPL.
By the way, for those dreaming of an easy life with the airlines then perhaps they should go with their eyes wide open? This is a good read from BALPA
http://blog.balpa.org/Blog/October-2...alance-Pilot-A
LJ