Question about CX SO basing

[energie]

Hi guys,

I have heard different stories from different people regarding this issue, so I am hoping to clarify this once and for all:

Do CX SOs have a choice on where they call their base? I have read that only FO and above gets this choice, but I have also heard of and spoke to SOs who are based in CX ports OTHER than HK.

Does anyone know the real deal?

thanks!
E.

[petitfromage]

All SOs are based out of HK.
Only FOs & Capts can take permanent basings.

Permanent basings are elective and in senority order assuming there are vacancies at that base. Obviously some bases are harder to get than others.....but thats life.

All ranks, including SOs, can take temporary basings. Temp basing for SOs are generally 2mths and for FOs & Capts 3-4mths.

Temp basings are not available at all ports on the network.
During temp basings you keep all your HK allowances (incl housing) and are not subject to tax at the basing port. In effect, your just doing multiple longer layovers.

For SOs, to make the roster work for as temp basing, you need 4 (5 for johannesburg) SOs who all request the same base for the same 2mth period.

After a temp base you must spend 4mths back in HK before you can take another temp base.