Global Supply System info

[Gottabefun]

Have been invited for an interview later this month with GSS. Anyone who can shed a light on life in the company. Interested in the usual stuff like rosters, take home pay etc etc.
Also:
1. What timeframe are newjoiners looking at for upgrade (have current Command on B737)
2. Do you get consecutive days off (commuter friendly roster)?
3. Are they hiring now because of expansion or 'caus people are leaving?

Any other inside info is highly appreciated.

[knehibiju]

I am no expert on GSS, but reading various posts from various strings on the board and others, it appears that GSS is the dumping ground still for early retiring BA captains. Training used to be in Miami through Atlas Air, but it may have moved to London, not sure. I think it's still one of those F/O forever or take the type and run places. Any GSS folks willing to talk about it?

[William A Bong]

The situation in GSS is well documented and it might be worthwhile to do a search to get full background information. But to answer your questions,

1 Out of a total of approx 105 pilots at present there are about 60 - 70 First Officers. Most of the Captains are under 55 so there will not be many retirements due to age for at least the next 5 - 8 years. At present the secondee "agreement" with BA is such that 2/3rds of all new commands will go to BA f/o's that wish to bid across. My guess at time to command for a new joiner at GSS would be 10 to 12 years.

2 Many of the pilots do commute and most seem to find it possible. There is no bidding system but you can request specific days off which seem to work for most people.

3 Despite what the website says, GSS are not an expanding airline. The third aircraft arrived in about June 2003. Since then we are regularly told that a fourth aircraft will be arriving soon but we are still waiting.
In the last six months approx 25 have left, with many going to Oasis, with the rumour of another operator starting up in Europe in September looking for type rated people it will be interesting to see how many more decide to leave.

Training is now provided by Lufthansa in Frankfurt, I believe that because so many people have left without paying back the bond (£25,000 over 5 years) the company is now insisting on a bank loan in the applicants name.
Hope this helps
W A B

[William A Bong]

Sorry for the delay Joe. As you know on some GSS trips there isn't time to get to a hotel computer::rolleyes:

European Start up.. As far as I am aware it will be based in Athens using 3 ex United aircraft. (possibly in the paint shop at present) The routes will be Athens - Toronto - Chicago - Athens with one aircraft and Athens - Los Angeles - Athens with the second. The third will be kept in reserve.

Commuting will be an option with an allowance paid each month for a crash pad, (or holiday home ).

Hoping for about an October start (pretty optimistic!!)

The airline is still trying to finalise details with the agency so no information on terms and conditions. If I hear anything else I'll post it here.

W.A.B