Air Mauritius - all you need to know about MK (threads merged)

[Skybiter]

Scuttlebutt is that Air Mauritius may be in the market for crews. Does any one have an email and postal address for them and any further info about the company such as what they're like to work for, chances for advancement and all that other stuff that keeps us awake at night. Much obliged folks....

[FACT-pilot]

I know of 3 Air Zimbabwe guys who left for mauritius, the last one R Paterson left in February. I think they are looking for crews. Try their web site to get any info on address application etc.

Hope this helps and best of luck.

[Skybiter]

FACT-Pilot

Thanks for the gen. Tried their web site and got a load of info but unfortunately all aimed at the punters and not at us wannabes. Would be grateful for any other information such as an email address as the particular bit of the sticks I'm in at the moment has a pretty dodgy postal system.

[tired]

Skybiter - don't know of an email address, but you can try faxing them at +230 6373190 attention Capt D. Paturau (Chief Pilot).

They've just taken on 17 new F/Os, don't know if they're looking for any more.

Working for them? On the flying side they're a great airline (the 340 fleet, anyway.) Salary and conditions not particularly good. The big problem is whether you can hack living on the Island, not always everyone's cup of tea, (though maybe better than where you are now?)

I think the chances for command have reduced considerably of late, a lot of the locals are starting to get towards the hours needed and will obviously get priority over expats. Up till now, it's been about 4 years before you could expect to start thinking about a command (on the jets, the ATR is different.) But they're supposed to be getting A319s soon, so that might change the equation again.

If you want to try snailmail, try:-
Air Mauritius
Flight Operations
SSR International Airport
Mauritius

Hope this helps.

[This message has been edited by tired (edited 14 June 2000).]

[Ultra]

Was just wondering if they're looking for anyone - min. req's etc.

Pls reply here or email me. Thank you.

[huntsman]

heard a while ago that there are some spots but you need to be a mauritian national
good luck

[Ultra]

Thanks Huntsman, Just thinking about buying a 76 endorsement.......seems all a bit too late now.....all the hopefuls are using local F/O's etc......thanks again...all the best...

[huntsman]

ultra
look at the rumours forum
there's a thread about people doing self-paid endorsements

[ifylofd]

Have tried unsuccesfully on other sections of this forum but not much luck. Since alot of you guys are geographically closer thought someone may help.
Can anyone provide any info on the Air Mauritius job? ie pay,currency,tax,perks(if any),company,lifestyle etc,etc,etc.
Hoping someone has experienced it or knows of someone who has.
If not on the forum feel free to email to [email protected].

Thanks. :)

[Ravensdale]

Did you apply for a position there?

I'm also after info and would be interested to know if anyone has an interview yet. Or if anyone has any info on the interview process?

Cheers

[The Unteleported Man]

I'm under the impression you need to be married to be accepted. Your spouse will probably not receive a work permit.

The guys I know there are generally happy although I've heard a bit of niggling with management goes on.

------------------
The basic tool for the manipulation of reality is the manipulation of words. If you can control the meaning of words, you can control the people who must use the words.

[yan]

hi guys!
right now, they undergoe interviews but only for airbus a-320/330/340 typed dudes. Unfortunatly they got a nice little pool of qualified guys from sabena (the belgium carrier is doing bad) and also a couple of guys from virgin...but might not be sufficient as emirates singapore and cathay are attracting most of the airbus drivers available.
Good luck to you all...
and regarding contract details, I don't know much.

[Intheslot]

Hi there guys, just wondering if anyone out there can give proffesional and un-biased info on Air Mauritius?? Preferably someone who is there at the moment or moved on from there to better pastures!
Thanks

[Pontius' Pilot]

Supply an email address and I will be able to put you in touch with pilots working there. Don't want to give their addresses on the open forum. I will contact you as soon as I have it. The sooner the better. I leave for London tomorrow evening.

[Intheslot]

Thanks a lot Pontius, if you click on the envelope next to my "callsign" the mail will come direct to me and then we can start comms. Enjoy LHR I am also there tomorrow night!!

[Intheslot]

Sorry Pontius, it is the grey envelope with the red "stamp" in the corner. Thanks!

[Pontius' Pilot]

Hi Intheslot. I sent you a personal message, did you receive it? We should meet at the Three Tuns pub across the road from Thistle Marble Arch, say between 13h00 and 14h00 local London time on Friday 25 August.

[Spool-up]

Yo Intheslot,

If you're gonna go...Go BIG.

Buster unload...go!

PS: 2.4 in 8. Enjoy London

[fast&furious]

Hello Intheslot

You must decide if you are "IN The Slot" or for that matter what SLOT you want to be in !!! Decisions decisions boy!! What do you want from life? You sound like a confused little short boy?!! what is your story?

[Intheslot]

fast&furious
If you read the initial question (thread) you will see that proffessional comments were asked for, why dont you stick to that for the moment?

[fast&furious]

Sorry there slotman, I am a patriot and can't understand the confusion. Where are you from and why do you want to go? What is the real reason?

[Intheslot]

Why dont you phone, invite me to the Dros and we can talk?!!!
Its about time you came to a pub lunch anyway ,you sword wielding warrior.

[FuelFlow]

Let me know the date and time. Its been a while Slotman!!!

[fast&furious]

That sounds like a mighty fine idea there lad. The rest who want to join could also do us proud. By the way, I am off to Mauritius in acouple of weeks and will be happy to give you feedback. Oh but wait, you want to work there, not holiday there!!?!

Lets stick to the pub lunch then.

Fuelflow, any mate of Intheslot is a mate of mine, so hopefully we will see you there too. :)

[Gourou]

According to a local news paper Air Mauritius local pilots got up to 20% pay rise to close the gap between local employed and expats. Does anybody have more information on the new contract.

[High-wing]

Does anyone know whats it like flying for Mauritius, and what are their requirements.
Also what type of licence is required (ICAO,JAL) ?

thanx :p

[BMM389EC]

Has anyone got any info on Air Mauritius? Salary, perks, time to command, entry requirements and so on. Have heard that they only consider applicants who have been recommended by someone within the airline. What is it like living on the island? Is it the island paradise it's made out to be? Also, any idea how Sep 11 has affected them?
Any info appreciated.

[Yossarian]

And who said there are more questions than answers? :)

[MK940]

Just wondering if anyone out there has any information on Air Mauritius. Are they a good company to work for and that sort of thing. What are their requirements. I keep hearing rumours of guys getting jobs with them with very low time(200-300hrs)and just the bare licence. Is it a hard company to get into? What's there selection process like and also what's it all about?. .Finally the rumours are they hire quite regularly, is there any truth to this?. .Thank you in advance everyone for any light you may be able to shed on this topic. I also encourage people who have worked for them and currently working for them to reply if possible. Cheers. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="smile.gif" />

[Doggs]

I heard a few weeks ago, that they are looking for crew's on the ATR's.

[KASAC 7]

The last advert for crew I saw was about a year ago. Minimums were 1500 total with comm & multi IR.

[MK940]

Guys, thank you so far. If anyone else has any friends or relatives who works in the airline, your help would be muchly appreciated. I knew there mins was 1500TT & CIRME, but I hear of them recruiting pilots with less than that. Is it true they prefer the French ATPL?

[Byjingo]

MK940, from sources in the know the only 2-300 hr pilots in the company are the Mauritian cadets, all others require type rating and hrs.. .They are looking for ATR captains at the moment.. .Preferably UK atpl but others ok, not too sure about US.. .They have a fairly high turnover of crew either due to the company or the living conditions, depends on who you talk to.. .We went for a holiday about a year ago and except for the hotel were very dissapointed, can understand why wives etc could arc up.. .Go for a holiday and have a look for yourself, housing and food are expensive also, depending on what fleet your on money's pretty ordinary.. .Hope this helps.

[Pontius' Pilot]

Licences: they accept any ICAO acceptable licence. There are SA, Australian, French, Zimbabwe, UK, Italian and other licence holders there.. .. .Yes they are looking for ATR guys, but might have filled the slots already I hear.. .. .My sources tell me they have also just recruited about 6-7 pilots for the A340. Apparently ex-Sabena.

[MK940]

Thank you all for taking the time to reply. It has cleared up a few questions I had. If anyone knows more about MK, please do not hesitate to post a reply. . .More importantly about the interviews and their whole selection process. Thanks again. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="wink.gif" />

[skyjockey]

anyone out there have an email address for Air Mauritius. .. .Cheers

[Byjingo]

[email protected] but don't expect a reply !!.. .My sources tell me that the only way to be in with a chance is to be type rated and send them a resume to add to thier ever growing pile.. .If they require someone they select from this pile and notify you either by phone or mail for an interview in Mauritius.. .. .The interview is a half day affair with written questionairs then the personal interview with the cp's of each fleet. You'll be questioned on tech airmanship and crm subjects.. .. .good luck.

[MK940]

Again thanks for your help guys. I guess this is a start and hope to hear from more people. . .I spoke with a guy who flys choppers with them but he wasn't much help. Told me exactly what some of you guys have mentioned. . .He did say about having to know people in the company, but high up helps. Also about not answering emails. I heard they're trying to nationalise their crew. Anyone know something about this? Makes sense but also I hear the reverse of this, that they only say this to please certain people in the company. Not sure what to believe.

[BMM389EC]

I'd like to send them a CV. Anyone know an e-mail address? Thanks

[[email protected]]

I am sorry to tell you but you can't send your cv by e-mail. they don't know how to use it. you will have to send it by mail but the chances that they will get back to you are very very small:D

[[email protected]]

Air Mauritius has finally decided to employ mauritian pilot. the selection will take place on the 3rd of july.
- psychometric test
- group exercice
- interview
- flight test

ps: can anyone help me with the psychometric test(eg the type of questions i could be asked, maybe how to prepare for it eventhough i know that u can't realy prepare for it.)
thanks and cross fingers i will get the job:D

[Kubota]

1. Don't try to second-guess the test
2. Don't try to second-guess
3. Don't try

That's it, in a nutshell. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers, just the truth. If you were seriously flawed, you probably wouldn't be as far in your career as this anyway.

[[email protected]]

thanks for your help mate
i will give you more news after the all the tests
hopefully i won't be too hard

ps: do you work for Air mauritius

[Kubota]

Good luck.

No, I am with Cathay, but am intimately familiar with the tests in question.

There are really no right or wrong anwers, and it's almost impossible to B-S the results. Be yourself.

[[email protected]]

The test has been postponed for the 11th of july. So I have an other more week to prepare.
We are only 4 so I think that I have a good chance but i still have to do my best.

[Pontius' Pilot]

lcaptain25

You promised us a reportback after the tests. How did they go?

[[email protected]]

I am still trying to get a job with them
I have never thought i would be so hard to get a job

I actually passed the psychological test but fail the technical questions. the questions they asked were about alternate and alternate miminum. my answers were right according to australian law but wrong according to jar so they said i wasn't good for them
so i had to go in france for one month,study a bit the jar and also did some simulator and the french said that i was really good
so now i am back in mauritius waiting to be call for an other interview and also a flight test
if they take to long i will go and work in sa. someone offered me a job there flying turbo prop

[saviboy]

hi everyone.
does somebody know what it takes to be hired at air mauritius.
JAA,CAA,FAA?, required experience, visa requirements...etc...
thnks
saviboy

[B Sousa]

AND you forgot the most important thing.............They have helicopters for tours....................

[saviboy]

thanks for the info ua427
anybody knows what kind of licences is required for air mauritius?

[KingAir]

The contact name I've seen here in the past is Capt. Gopaul. Can anybody confirm that this is person to address CVs to?

[VH-WASA]

Air Mauritius is one of those bad mannered companies that don't even give the courtesy to acknowledge receipt of application. You receive neither a reply nor acknowledgement. Makes you wonder what sort of an operation they run. A company like this that is so bad mannered is probably not the kind of company thats worth working for. Good luck anyway.

[Pontius' Pilot]

VH-WASA it is unfortunate that your impression of Air Mauritius is formed soley by their lack of response to your CV submission. This is unfortunately their way of doing things with regard to CV's - agreed it is very annoying.

The rest of your assumptions are however not true, the companay is great to fly for, there are great pilots to work with, and it's also a good safe operation.

Persist with re-submitting your CV if you are keen to live on the island.

[planecrazi]

Well said PP, and I agree 100% with you. It's a good Company and excellent pilots to work with. Operation is tops and the Company makes profits.
I understand they receive 20-30 application per day which is tiresome to answer to when they are not recruiting, I'm told. They prefer to look at type rated pilots first.
If you don't succeed at first, try and try again!;)

[[email protected]]

Guys, I am sorry to say but Air mauritius is very bad company. First of all, they made 500millions rps of profit. It should have been double.
Why do they employ people from overseas when there are lots of mauritian guys fully qualified?(by the way i am mauritian)
If there was not politics in this company me and my fellow friends would be working for them already.
It might be good for people from overseas,well paid nice life ,fly once a month n u tell me this is a good company sorry to say i don't believe you guys.
I am in contact with the top guys of Air Mauritius at the moment. I have everything they ask me n everything they want but still nothing is happening not even one letter from them. Do you think I should be happy. N recently they just employed some guys from overseas on ATR.
Now I have to go to Africa to work leave my island my familly and friends behind. Do you still think it is a good company.Think again

[planecrazi]

Well Icaptain, I have thought again, and I think it's a good Company. Maybe they have their reasons for not taking certain pilots, but that doesn't make it a bad Company. Think how many pilots have applied and couldn't get in due to all the slots being filled.

I left my family and friends and spent 10 years flying in Africa other interesting places before joining an airline and you are upset because you didn't just walk right in. Think again about experience, it is earned over time and not bought.;)

[El Peligroso]

Now I have to go to Africa to work leave my island my familly and friends behind.

U wanna b n airline pilot? Get used to it!
:rolleyes:

[lostcomm]

Oh my god!!!!! That is just terrible, he had to live his family and friends. Well, get a desk job if you wanna see your family every day. That is not a pilots life my man. I havent seen my wife for 4 months- as the guys say GET USED TO IT !!!!!

There is a lot of nice world out there, look on the bright side and have fun while flying overseas. Don`t miss your island, you`ll get a lot of chances later to fly with them.

lostcomm

[ShenziRubani]

Oh la la, Icaptain!! desole mon vieux but that's the game. You wanna fly man, you go where the job is, and sometimes, it's not in your homeland, especially when home is so small that there's only 1 major airline.
I am from Madagascar and I have not seen home for 4 years! Family? well, that was not part of the cv too.

I am a bit sad though to see that you insist on the fact that Air Mauritius employs a lot of foreigners, pole sana like we say in East Africa. If you wanted to be a pilot and only fly for Air Mauritius and only live in Mauritius, yes it's tough dude, but I don't think you have to blame the company, the foreigners working there and the politics for not getting a job. Do you have an ATR rating? There are good jobs in Africa man. Look for them. If you don't hve one, then I understand why they choose foreigners who may come with the rating

Salaams,

Heym I forgot, it is a very good company

[MamboBaas]

Hey guys,
don't be so unsympathetic to Icaptain! However, Icaptain, it's true that for most of us in aviation we have to spend most of our time away from our countries, homes and families. Unless you're lucky enough to come from a country with a large aviation industry, where jobs are plenty for its nationals, you just have to get used to it and savor the time you do manage to spend at home with family and friends. I've only ever managed to work in my country for less than a third of my life. Just remember - absence makes the heart grow fonder.
;)

[the looka]

Questions for anyone in the know.
1.Do they take ozzies, type rated on 330/340, lotsa hours.
2.How much time off between patterns on the island.(very important as a move would be based on spending a whole heap more time surfing than able with current job).
3.Does the company still provide housing close to surfing beaches as I'm led to believe they have in the past.
4.Whats the game fishing like.
5.Is salary still 4k us for fo and 7k us command.
6.Whats the cost of living like for a single guy.
7.Whats the chance of pulling the odd root.
8.Do jet fo's take thier commands on the ATR.
Thanks for help in advance. Will answer any questions about cathay in return. Cheers

[Pontius' Pilot]

Well I've just got back from that one flight for the month that Icaptain25 speaks about. In fact it's my second trip to Paris this month, and then I have to still fly to SIN & KUL next week (3 nights in KUL) and then off to HK in the last week of the month (4 nights in HKG). Thank goodness we don't have to fly on two days of the month!! MK must certainly have one of the nicest route stuctures to make it the great flying job it is.


On a more serious note:

Icaptain25

I think if you were to let us know what qualifications and type ratings you have that you are offering MK, it would make it clear to us all how unfairly you are being treated or if you are just lacking in experience. A lack of experience is no crime. As planecrazi says, you will get it in time.

In another post you mentioned that your interview did not go all that well, and if you say you returned to France after your interview I then have met you on that flight. You did not come across as negative and as bitter as you are now when we chatted on the flight deck. Or have I got the wrong guy? The person I met was a very pleasant guy who seemed determined to persue his goal of flying for MK. Why the change? Don't give up so easily.

----------------------------------
500 million MUR (rps) profit:
----------------------------------

Yes I think everyone thinks it could have been better. I have the Annual Report 2001-2002 in front of me and the figures reflect a profit of closer to 520 million rupees. This after a disappointing 2000-2001 year. It shows me that the MD is doing something correct to turn the company's profits around like that in one year.

----------------------------------------------------------
Why do they employ people from overseas... :
----------------------------------------------------------

Same as every company I guess. Because there are insufficient local people available with the required expertise and qualifications. Whilst MK employs ex-pats, they do run a cadet scheme, from time to time, which takes Mauritians from zero flying experience to their first commercial flying job on the ATR's.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
but still nothing is happening, not even a letter from them.. :
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agreed! Their way of keeping their potential recruits informed of their selection status is poor.


I too have thought about it again, and yes I am still convinced that it is a great company to fly for.

(edited for spelling)

[[email protected]]

Thanks Pontius for your nice long mail,
I have been to france recently(on air mauritius request at air mauritius school EPAG) I spend a month there learning the JAR and flying on the sim.
The french told me that my level was excellent (flying and technical)and that I had the potential to achieve a lot. I couldn't believe it myself. When i went to france i was scared that they were going to find that my level was very bad (they critize a lot the australian training) but i didn't have one simple problem.
I even went to Britair to do an assessment on ATR (passed technical and flying no problems at all)
When i left mauritius they (banymandhub and co) told me that they will assess me as soon as I get back. They promiss it. Now they don't believe my results at EPAG and say that it doesn't mean anything what else do they want
Since i have been back no news from them at all. I might if i am lucky get interviewed and tested on ATR in january. Nothing on paper yet. Why? Too much pressure so he or they don't want to take any decsisions. So I hope now you understand why i am a bit pissed off.
Top guys (meaning chief pilot will not mention any names) told me that they were disgusted by the way this company was running. Not long ago when they did mauritian pilot selection they were told that if they employ a white they have to employ a chinese and at least 2 indiens. true. N i am white..........big problem but sooner or later i will change my name n grow a bear
anyway I am off to SA tomorow morning Will see how it goes there

[Gunship]

Ok http://www.stopstart.btinternet.co.uk/sm/gaga.gif

[saviboy]

hi guys
I was the one who originately posted this topic, and even though all the replies were very inetresting and instructive, I still dont know if i can apply with FAA licenses at Air Mauritius.
thanks in advance
saviboy

[Pontius' Pilot]

saviboy

An ICAO recognised licence is acceptable. When being employed by MK you are issued a Mauritian licence on the grounds of your existing licence, in your case an FAA one.

Heathrow09L

MFF (multi fleet flying) on A319 and A340 is only done by a few of the more senior pilots at the moment. Normally (exceptions do occur) type rated pilots are placed onto the A340, B767 fleet.

A319 is now generally being used as a progression to the A340. Some ATR captains have progressed onto the A319 as FO's recently, and so have some FO's from the A340. These will soon be receiving their command training on the A319 in time for the delivery of the second A319 in Q1/Q2 of 2003.

Entry level for lesser experienced FO's would most likely be the ATR. The offer of employment is made for a specific type, from there one fits into the company policy as determined from time to time according to the company's needs.

Hope this helps.

[orgasmotron]

Guys, sound like great company. Look on the bright side, if you hear from them after applying, then it can only be good news. Companies in South Africa seems to be doing the same. SAA never replies unless they want to hire you. Comair the same. I might be wrong but that has been my experience. SAA seems like Josua Door. You must have an uncle in the furniture bussiness to get your CV to them. The smalle guys in SA normally does not last long enough to reply. All the guys I have spoken to, only have good things to say about MK.

Can someone please tell me if I will be wasting my time to apply at MK with a RSA ATP. 2700 TT, 1500 medium jet P2(40 000 kgs +). I will really appreciate a contact address and name to apply to.

Must say, the smaller companies in SA is great to work for. Good bunch of oaks and some of them really have exceptionally high standards.

Happy surfing !!

[Byjingo]

I've heard that Air Mauritius is conducting interviews for Captains and F/O's for ATR in Feb.
Can anyone confirm that the ATR fleet is now fixed ie, no chance of going to the jets and that the pay is equiv $1600 US for F/Os and $2300 US for Captains.
Also why are ATR guy's leaving enmasse ?.is it because of the lack of promotion ?
Anyone heard anything else?.:confused:

[captain69]

Is that $2300 a week or month, if it is a month then I can see why they are bolting.

Peanuts

[planecrazi]

Rumour has it that they interviewed ATR Captains and A319 F/O's yesterday and some more today!;)

[banzobe]

direct entries, and buying the next rating to be promoted are also good reasons???

cheers
:mad:

[ZFT]

Byjingo

<<Also why are ATR guy's leaving enmasse >> They are?

[IB6-UB9]

OK lads, let's hear the 100 most valid reasons for leaving this ATR outfit.

1, Low Pay
2, Boring destinations, 3 in all
3,
4,
5,
6,
and la di da!!!!;)

[[email protected]]

i heard that lost of atr pilots are leaving and that air mauritius will be in big trouble soon. is that true?
anyway i will understand why they are all leaving!:D

[4HolerPoler]

Well then Captain, you can finally get your job with MK, move back to your motherland and we can put to rest your regular gripes about not getting a job.

Take it from me son, there's a pile of CV's a foot high on Manoj's desk, most of them rated. Somehow I don't think they're in the dwang. The ATR fleet has always had a reasonable turnover what with promotions to the jet fleets & guys jumping ship.

Life in paradise, IMHO, will just go on, as before.

Bon Chance Mon Ami.

4HP

[Byjingo]

Unfortunately 4holer, since the DFO announced the ATR fleet is now a fixed fleet, ie no promotion to the jets, the situations changed for a lot of the guy's.
Th pay was acceptable when it was transitory, however now, with no prospect of promotion some of the guy's will have to go elsewhere.
The managements attitude aparently is "if you don't like it, leave".
They have already interviewed direct entry guy's to the 319.
According to some of the pilots the cp and ftm arn't helping matters, cancelling leave, not allowing pilots to leave the island on days off and failing people in the sim. Sounds like paradise to me, I think I'll stay where I am.

[Skaz]

ok, so are they looking for more crew or what?

3 destinations are better than none at all!:D

[austerette]

Peoples I just wanted to comment on the Air Mauritius thing, I was flying for Another ATR operator and went for an interview with Air Mauritius in 2001, got offered the job but was told in the interview that if you are not 'local' you will be pushed aside for them first so may never get on the jet. The pay was about $1600 plus allowances, the accomodation is great but they wanted six months notice or you pay them out and they only do three routes. Those were the facts and although the beach life might have been great I turned it down because of the above reasons and because it is a very small place.
Everyone to their own though so good luck to guys who have interviews.

[MK940]

Without digressing too much from the original post, MK is the National Airline of Mauritius and it makes perfect sense that they will always try to promote their own people first. This happens all over the world and the fact that they tell you at your interview or from the beginnning, leaves to no misunderstanding in the future. Should you decide to take on the position, at least you know what lays ahead.
I understand they've had too many people come to the company to get Jet Ratings, build some hours on type then leave. At least with the Locals, once they get the job they stay with the company till retirement.
As was mentioned in the previous post, "each to their own" and if you're not happy with MK's offer then don't take it.

I agree with Skaz, 3 destinations are better than none & there was a recent advertisement in the local newspaper for Mauritian pilots.

[SID the STAR]

once locals get the job they stay till retirement!

who are you kidding MK940?

its time MK got rid of thier DFO not to mention a few others... :}

[MK940]

SID the STAR.....Your feelings about the DFO and others has no bearing on my post. I am merely pointing out that when MK hire a local pilot, the have a higher probability of keeping them than they do of an expat. Without been unfair, this is not to say that some expats won't stay, however looking at past records, the figures speak for themselves.
ATR Pilot comments appears to give reasons why the Pilots are leaving MK. I wasn't making any comments about why they leave MK, as a matter of fact I didn't realise that Pilots were leaving MK to such an extent as is pointed out.

[White Knight]

aircrew001 - good luck to you. Just remember however that for you, being favoured as a Mauritius national is what you can expect with Air Mauritius. However for a lot of us Brit types we are actively discriminated against in what is supposed to be our own country in the great quest for "equality". You would have FAR more chance of getting a position with BA than a Brit guy would of a position with Air Mauritius. This is how it works in the western world these days. I'm very lucky and have managed to get out of "mud island" and work elsewhere.
Just pi**sses me off really...
Rant over - as I say good luck to you in your career.

[Rarely]

Any of you guys out there know anything about the pay and conditions at MK?

Very little on this available.

Also would they consider 757 time for a 767 job?

[Byjingo]

Very doubtful you'd get on the 76, talk of them being phased out .
Quite a high turnover of pilots on the other fleets due to relatively poor conditions and low pay.
There is no management to speak of, in name only.
Expats are bottom of the list as is the usual case.
Living standards are typical third world.
Place is full of bad attitudes and light fingers.

[4HolerPoler]

Sounds like you've been rejected byjingo. Bit of a chip on the shoulder? I'm sure that within a few days there'll be a few posts from guys on the island who don't share your point of view and are quite content with life & conditions there.

4HP

[126,7]

Actually 4HP, I've heard plenty of negative stories about that outfit. Most of them along similar lines to what Byjingo is saying, and I heard it from guys on the A340 fleet. Apparently its only nice to go there on holiday........

[CrashDive]

Seeing that Storm Aviation are already running a PPRuNe 'banner ad' to this effect, would the following link help ?!: Various flight crew jobs (http://www.stormaviation.com/jobs_flight.html)

[Verified]

4HP

If you liked it so much there in MK, why did you leave?
Maybe better conditions, etc, i wonder!

[Rhodie]

Verified....

TRY, maybe, to do what your name says..... :ouch:

4HP never said anything about working at or leaving MK - he made a comment on a statement.

Personally - I know a few guys who flew with MK - the name and the man... no complaints heard from them.

R

[4HolerPoler]

As a matter of fact I have worked for them, initially on a wet-lease and then full time contract. Loved it. Great place to live, great routes, great aeroplanes, nice people. I left for personal reasons - it was sad to move on & sure I have fond memories. No regrets about leaving but I get pee'd off when I see someone who quite clearly doesn't know what they're talking about slagging the place.

If you get a chance to work for them, enjoy the privilege.

4HP

[Rhodie]

Well - there you have it....

Verified.

:ok:

R

[Byjingo]

Well, I guess if you come from somewhere worse than Mauritius then it would be ok, personally I was glad to move on to sandier pastures, along with about 20 other guy's and gals

4HP, no chip here, just speaking my mind, some people like it, others hate it, there's no middle ground.

[4HolerPoler]

:ok: The most important thing is that you're where you want to be. There will always be greener grass in other pastures.

4HP

[dodoflies]

4HP, Rhodie and Byjingo

It is now confirmed that the Chief of Operations(a french expatriate) at MK has been asked to politely remove himself after they had greased his bank account. Apparently there were Parliamentary Questions about to be asked at the Legislative Assembly and he had the answers of all the mismanagement by this department where he had no authority......Ala li la.

[4HolerPoler]

As I said, it's a great place to live, great routes, great aeroplanes, nice people. There will always be someone on the take in Africa or Asia. If you concentrate on staying out of the politics and enjoying the view out the front window then these issues will have little effect on you.

Ala li la to you as well Sir.

4HP

[Rarely]

4HolerPoler

If you have worked there then how about the salary info?

[4HolerPoler]

I left with a heavy heart (but no regrets) in '99. Salaries & conditions have improved since then (not all of them I believe but there have been substantial gains) and I'm sure you won't have to wait long for someone to post the current ones. MK reward loyalty in their expats; gone are the days of a quick upgrade but if you are an F/O and you keep your nose clean you'll be given the opportunity to swap seats in time. End of contract gratuities also increase substantially for each successive contract completed.

Are you a dreamer or have you got what it takes? You'll need a rating (I think they'll still give you a CCQ course), perserverance, determination, a plan, the ability to chart an alternative plan, a supportive yet appreciative family and the ability to fly an aircraft to a decent standard.

Good luck.

4HP

[McGreaser]

Actually Air Mauritius was looking for 76 drivers not so long ago (Less than six months ago to be precise). If l remember correctly even on the 340, Captains and F/O's as well. Maybe it's for the reason why then they were recruiting coz of the "exodus" of jockeys.:suspect:

[G Jetson]

They advertised in Flight Int recently, got a few responses bt no one turned up after finding out whats been going on over there.
As you say, all fleets very unhappy with conditions and Managements attitude of "if you don't like it, leave".
Pay is low compared to other operators and living conditions leave a lot to be desired, electricity outages/fluctuations every week, high rents for even a small dump and inability to leave the island whenever you want, have to "ask" the cheif pilot for his permission even if your on days off.
Cancellation of leaves at short notice and sim's can be hell on earth depending on who the instructor is.
Seniority is a joke which is why a lot of guys are leaving, told no chance of command or upgrade.

[Pontius' Pilot]

"The cats out of the bag"

[scrat]

when you say low pay , What is low ?
In canada average salary for F/O domestic airlines 30,000 U$.
B727,737,MD83........

[Byjingo]

MK guy's correct me if I'm wrong, but from what I've heard 319 f/o's are on about 65,000 mauritian rupees per month base, with the constantly depreciating rupee I think that is 28,000 us.
On top of that there is a housing allowance which covers about 80% of the cost of a reasonable bungalow and meal allowances which would possibly cover your weekly food bills.

[manamana]

Apparently no good for wives as well. They aren't allowed to work, so get mighty bored after a while. I know of at least one bloke who left as his wife gave him so much trouble about being bored, no job, very limited social life etc.

[UAU242]

As a (single) Mauritian who's used to the living conditions, would pretty much fly for food and beer money and who really needs a break to get into this profession, this is a good thing...right??

[Byjingo]

With an attitude like that your the reason Air Mauritius treat pilots the way they do.

quote: I'd pretty much fly for food and beer money.

This is the attitude that degrades the standards in the industry.

Go and get a GA job like everyone else had to and build your experience to a standard where you can apply for an airline job anywhere.:yuk:

[UAU242]

*Edited due bad attitude*

So, back to my question. Is the recent apparent exodus of ex-pats necessarily a good thing for local pilots?

[Solid Rust Twotter]

UA

Why would standards fall if there is fierce competition for jobs? One would expect them to rise....

[Byjingo]

UA,
I understood your attitude perfectly, your one of the many that would work for next to nothing and degrade the industry for everyone especially your countrymen.
They have been fighting for equal conditions for ages and people like you blow that out of the water.
For those of us with families to feed and retirements to consider we can't accept conditions any lower than what they are in many companies.
As they say in the classics, pay peanuts get monkeys.

[UAU242]

Edited due bad attitude

You say that Mauritians having been fighting for equal conditions...with who?? Ex-pats?? Please shed some light on this

[Byjingo]

UA,
My My, what an attitude, you should change your title from wannabe to nevergonnabe.
Obviously your not a pilot as you have no idea about the profession. Comparing pilots to factory workers, dear oh dear.

Both expats and locals at AM were trying to inmprove conditions within AM but have had little luck with management, they were too busy lining their own pockets and running away !.
The loss of so many expat pilots will have no immediate effect on local pilots, other than the fact that if they continue to leave at the current rate, which is probable, there won't be enough crews to service the schedule so will have to cancel flights.
As far as I know there are no Mauritian cadets in training so little hope of any new mu pilots comming on the scene unless you go and do your own thing and hope to get recruited... unless your related to someone in management then you'll have smooth sailing to a jet f/o's position within 12 months.

P.S you have no idea what jobs I've had to do or where I've had to work to get to where I am now, so I suggest you "pull your head in":mad:

[UAU242]

thanks for shedding some light on the situation.

PS: I apologise if any offence was taken, I was just trying to get a point across!

[G Jetson]

More resignations this week and not many takers for the 340 f/o positions advertised on Pprune, I guess in flight relief doesn't appeal to too many.

[Gunship]

Sad to hear that very experienced pilot's (like Staal and JC) are leaving.

Then again I can not work for a monkey myself ...

Pontius bru ... are you staying ?

[Byjingo]

It's not just the money, it's the lack of command upgrades, they have a lot of very experienced f/o's that in any other airline would have been captains years ago, they are now leaving for direct command positions with other carriers.
A lot of the Captains on the ATR are also set to leave very shortly as most have been offered jet positions with other companies, it's just a matter of time.

Last one out turn the lights off !!!.

[dodoflies]

Sad reality, yet there are many mauritians who have never had the opportunity to join MK for obvious reasons and yet are flying jets and turboprops elsewhere.....

Dodo can fly

[Pontius' Pilot]

4HP

Can you explain what happened to the post that followed "dodoflies" post? It was here earlier today.

Did you delete it? I see you did edit it.

Response by PM 4HP

[Echoes]

And was recently awarded Best Airline of the Indian Ocean. All I have to say is well done. Impressive…

That’s too bad if some great flyers are now leaving the company. It’s not a first, it happened before and it will happen again. But at the rate it’s now occurring, I wonder what the aftermath is going be. The Phoenix is a mere legend folks!

Is it that upgrades would mean bigger salaries? Hence minimising the filling of one’s own pocket. Or is it that the outcome of upgrades would probably someday replace reserved positions? Yet, as someone mentioned before, management holds the reigns. That’s another nuisance that degrades the industry. Excessive power always results in the complete downfall of the dynasty.

And yes, very strange that they don’t favor their own countrymen. I wonder what’s the real reason behind this? Even we expats aren’t able to explain this. Especially with those willing to fly for food and beer only…One would see the word ‘profit’ in big capital letters! Could be another subject of an interesting post. Let there be light once and for all!

About time someone grabs a broom and sweeps all that dust that has been around for far too long.

Echoes will always be there.

[G Jetson]

Echo,
You must have ringing in your ears, have a look at www.airlinequality.com and see what passengers have to say about AM, a 3 star airline.
SAA won best african airline, who was AM up against, Air Madagaskar !!
My wife and I have flown with AM and found the experience totally disagreeable after being 24 hours late that is.
To the f/a's your just an inconvenience.

The question management should be asking is why are the pilots leaving.
I think the chips on their shoulders are blocking their ears.

[Byjingo]

This is part of a memo to flight crew from Air Mauritius management;
All MOU's (memorandum of understanding) be signed for a period of 5 years.
The world of airlines is in turmoil and both nationally and internationally the company is going to face increased competition. Fifth freedom rights are going to be the order of the day. The staunch support we have secured from government cannot be expected to continue for long as the government itself is under pressure and threat to open its skies because of globalisation trends and initiatives.

All over the airlines world, the news has not been good. Job losses, salary cuts, Pilot wage concessions to management is the growing mantra.
In order to ensure stability as the company mobilizes itself against these EXTERNAL forces, costs within the company due to INTERNAL cause need to be contained, if not curtailed.


Amazing, do these clowns really expect thier flight crews to believe this.
I don't think their cheif pilots and ftm's have handed back thier new european company cars yet !!.

Air Mauritius management, take a look outside your crappy little 3rd world island, most other airlines are doing very well thank you, thats why your losing 5 pilots or more each month.!!

[Pontius' Pilot]

4HP

Was the post that was placed after BYJINGO, removed by moderators or the poster himself?

[BAKELA]

:uhoh: Serious sensitivity smelt here...:E

[4HolerPoler]

Strange things going on here - can't remember the guy's name - he made a rambling post then came back later & added an offensive image which I removed, leaving the original post. Today the whole post is missing. You aren't missing anything.

4HP

[G Jetson]

Pailleenqueue, where are you ???, it was just starting to get interesting, maybe a bit too much Mauritian rum before jumping on the computer !!!!.:}

[9Ws]

Anyone know if MK are looking for ATR pilots now? What do they pay ATR Captains and F/Os?

Will they upgrade a high-time ATR F/O to Captain? If yes, what conditions, bond etc.?

[Byjingo]

9Ws
Pay for Cp is around US2500/month but paid in Mauritian Rupees which is devaluing as we speak, 25% in last couple of years.
On top of that you get 16000 mur housing which does not cover the cost of a bungalow, plus meal and travel allowances.

Could be position comming up as there are people leaving constantly due to the poor conditions and stupid management.
The contract is four years, or as the pilots say, 6 months, as thier favourite game is failing people in the 6 monthly sim.

I wouldn't bet on getting promoted to Cp, there are f/o's that have been there for ages trying that.

Other ATR operators are paying up to US$6000/month, look around.
As the Air Mauritius DFO stated "there is no career path here for expats"
Good one Bunny !!.

[Kep Ten Jim]

There was talk of MK reequipping with 777s to replace the 767s. Anything in that?

[Kep Ten Jim]

Dessas -

What are '773' and '346'? Are they B777s and A340s? If so, who gets to upgrade onto the 777s? - the B767 or current A340 pilots? What will they do with the 767s? Would you get an ATR captain upgrading directly to the 777/340 fleets as captain? What sort of salary is a medium-term A340 captain getting?

[UAU242]

Applications are being taken for ab-initio and licence holders....anyone have any idea about how many people might be applying?? I handed over my application recently and expected a queue....maybe everyone's applying by email!

[G Jetson]

Hey Dessas,
Your a funny guy !, you had me going there for a minute, tell us which comedy club you work at and we'll come and see you.

And I thought Mauritians didn't have a sense of humour !!!.:E

[G Jetson]

Dessas,
I don't think there are too many people "hanging around" waiting to get into MK, especially not me.
Any prospective employee has to be aware of the facts before applying to any company.
I think the "fact" that the Mauritian Government is reviewing its financial involvement with MK and the chronically depreciating currency and lack of command upgrades are more important than a boat and fancy drinks.
To me, a couple of trips a week to India dosn't rate too highly.:yuk:
As a Mauritian of course you will get promoted.
I look forward to the official company statement regarding the purchase of these supposed aircraft.

[3MTA3]

I just wanted to thank the hiring team of MK for their behaviour: if they haven't been so arrogant, obnoxious, trying to reinvent aviation and make you feel like an ignorant with their stupid questions asked in a pigeon english I would be based in an island the size of my garden, only dirtyer, where the word "culture" only reffers to sugar cane and from where you may only leave with the permission of your chief pilot. Oh, of course Mr Dessas I won't have the immense privilege of flying North-South routes, but what the heck, if my flight starts at 23.00 local time I don't really care if I'm flying West or North, I only know that it's spoiling my night.
Instead of this paradise, I just was offered a command on a similar type of plane, based in a beautiful country, so no bitterness , only facts. :E :E :E

[VS1g]

Management has made a terrific offer to it's ex-pat pilots at the recent meeting on the new MOU. It was so attractive that the union had no alternative but to reject it. An increase in the monthly housing allowance which amounts to less than the allowance for one flight to Paris.

Well things are certainly under control here and as dessas says the attrition rate is nothing that MK can't handle.

Let me go and pour a 'Pina Collada' and join dessas on the beach.

[Byjingo]

I wouldn't want to be hanging by the short and curlies waiting for these new aircraft either !!.
Me thinks a story to try and curb the flow.:hmm:

Where's that carrott.

[TooBadSoSad]

Can one of you MK pilots please forward me Robbie Burt's email address. Need to meet up with him in London.

[planecrazi]

TooBadSoSad,
How would you like to know? Your personal email in your PM has been locked out.:D

[Anti-Skid Inop]

3Mta3

Sounds like you are making excuses for not making the grade at an MK interview!!!:{
Maybe you should swallow some pride and stop telling everyone how you have just been offered a command and admit you weren't good enough for MK.
Why did you go for the interview in the first place, if you were never interested in working for the company at all.
You may be able to pull the wool over your own eyes,but the rest of us can see straight through you.

Don't shoot down companies if you are not qualified to comment on them.(That is having actually worked for them!!):uhoh:

[sanook]

I agree with the above post. Well said anti-skid. Remember you do have a choice!;)

[The Saviour]

So trouble in paradise it would seem. By the sounds of things there are a lot of unhappy pilots there. I enjoyed my time there but not always at the airport. From what my friends there tell me, the more things change the more they stay the same.
Just a quick point on the previous post from ANTI-SKID INOP, you point is valid. But the part about been good enough for MK made me laugh:D . Remember many a guys have worked for MK and have had the chance to fly alongside or do SIM with some of these "good enough for MK" pilots.
Collectively, I believe all will agree when i say, one doesnt need to know how to fly a plane or have any interest in aviation or been a professional airman to be "good enough for MK" now, does one?

[Dessert Aviator]

Anybody care to let me know if Gavin Nash or Kurt Hill are still with MK; or Keith Sadler for that matter. Send PM:ok:

[G Jetson]

The Saviour, I agree.
I believe one of their good enough Mauritian training captains ran the ATR-72 off the side of the runway in Plaisance recently, the passengers must have loved that, and the CP over-temped the engines in a 42 on a go around during training, that's good enough !!.

Anti Skid Inop, you obviously work their with a name like that.

[The Saviour]

So I hear management have decided to reconsider. Do you guys think this is genuine or some sort of delay tactic? Maybe they didnt realise how many guys they were about to lose. As Im told, if they have been saying NO all this time, why would they all of a sudden have a change of heart, something doesnt seem right.
When I was there I believe every pilot tried their best to save money for the company, in terms of delaying configuration, visual approaches whenever possible and not starting engines until the possible last minute. I dont think management realise how much money some of you guys are actually saving by doing that. There was a particular airline in the same situation, where all pilots decided to adhere strictly to SOP, which in turn raised the fuel cost astronomically.
Im not suggesting anyone to do these things, but there are ways to show them what you are doing to run an efficient operation and increase profit.
Would like to hear you thoughts........

[JD128]

one doesnt need to know how to fly a plane or have any interest in aviation or been a professional airman to be "good enough for MK" now, does one?

To the Saviour and others who have flown for MK, to what extent is this true?

[Byjingo]

I guess i've flown with about 10 different nationalities of co-pilots over the years and found in general the young Mauritians to be the least informed and least interested in anything to do with aviation exept for how many bars they'll get to wear and how much money they make.
They also have the worst hand/eye coordination I've seen.
There are some exeptions but not many.
The main problem with Air Mauritius is these young f/o's are promoted on hours not capability, 1000 hrs and off you go to the jet.:eek:

[The Saviour]

I agree with Byjingo, as i had the same opportunity to fly with some of these guys before flying jets. The attitude doesnt really change when they get on jets either. It's all about the money and the social status on the island and what car they are seen in. As we say "Big fish, small pond".
I recall a check flight where the F/O did a rather hard landing, in fact a bounce. The WX was light winds(about 3 kts) and CAVOK. He had been on type for about 1 year, so he has flown this aircraft in worst conditions. Basically he flared too late, which can happen to the best of us. However his arguement was it was severe windshear. The thing that sticks to my mind is his comment "It's not my fault". This is just one isolated case, just admit you did a hard landing, learn from it and move on.
Having said that, there were some very good pilots who do not fit that stereotype we just mentioned, however as Byjingo said, it's not many. It would not be so evident if the numbers were the other way around.

[UAU242]

A possible reason for mk's relative lack of Mauritian pilots or a flawed recruitment system (where the keen and capable don't actually get in)? Or neither?

Also, anyone heard anything about the today's decision on the new aircraft? L'Express were talking about the A330, and the 777, over the weekend with a choice of either GE or RR powerplants.

[Byjingo]

UAU242,
I agree with you, the ones that get selected are the ones that know or are related to someone in Air Mauritius.
Unfortunately the kids that hang around the airport fence and love aeroplanes never or very rarely get the opportunity.
Nepotism is alive and well
The car is definitely 'the' symbol in Mauritius.

[3MTA3]

ANTI SKID INOP, sorry for not being good enough for your marvelous airline. Unlike you, I don't have the feeling that I'm a god's gift to aviation. If I came to the interview it's only because I couldn't beleive all I heard about the general behaviour in this company and the dirtyness of the island.
Youre attitude is an exact reflect of what I could see during my stay. Can you explain me then why so many pilots are desperate to leave your "elite" airline? why some of them litterally escaped during a trip to Europe?
I'll leave you to your oversized ego and the idea that you are some kind of ace. By the way, can you explain me how come the day of my interview one out of three pilots failed his psycho technic test, and that person wasn't me, he was one of your "top guns"?
I always beleived that aviation should be kept simple and only requires common sense and I will alwas stay away from this "we are the best" attitude, especially when people like you have the indecence of saying "you're not good enough". I don't even see the point of saying that. I never felt better than the pilots that I had to reject when I was in a hiring team. I just felt that they didn't match with the general picture of the airline. Nothing to do (except for very few of them) with their pilot's skills.

[UAU242]

Everyone has their own views, but lets not turn this thread into a slagging off match...just a suggestion.

[G Jetson]

dessas.

Any news on the new aircraft ???
Havn't seen anything on the Boeing or Airbus website yet.

[Byjingo]

the deal for the new a/c is done. Only fin details remain. It will be out by the end of Jan.

GJ
Dessas didn't say which Jan, maybe 2010.
As The Saviour said is this just another of their delaying tactics.

[Byjingo]

I'm shocked, NOT

[dodoflies]

UAU 242,Byjingo....

Anybody knows if the recruitment of local pilots at MK will happen or are they changing the requirements?Seems that is taking a long long time now specially with General Elections coming up this year any clues please will be much appreciated..

Merci

[UAU242]

hi there dodo

This IS taking a long time isn't it! And i think it will take even longer. Apparently they are relaxing requirements for ab-initios and publishing another ad in the papers. Which means a new deadline date for applications, another long wait for HR to sort them all out and hopefully (one day) an interview date set. Ki pou faire, bizin attanne!

UAU

[The Saviour]

Dessas

From my sources it sounds like you are correct. This doesnt surprise anyone Im sure, as when Nash was still around he did a similar deal with Airbus for the A319. Definately the most unsuitable aircraft for its purpose, there were many better choices.
Does MK really think their purchase will make a dent in A or B financial report, even if they restructured the whole fleet. It would still be a proverbial drop in the ocean compare to some other companies.
I understand A and B were coming and going with meetings and other things. We all know why Boeing wants MK to swing their way and its nothing to do with purchasing some B777.
From the latest meetings it would appear that the manufacturers are not the only ones giving up on MK. Im told that the pilots have been strung along a little too far and most of them are aware that the end is near. Hope that MK have done their calculations right and wont need to ground flights.
Its a sad thing when a company doesnt know how to treat its employees.

[Where are we now?]

Rumour has it the Chief Pilot has been offered voluntary retirement, along with the DFO, leaving the positions open for some little guy. Story goes that anyone over 50 has been offered this VRS, including first floor flight ops. This scheme is supposedly open for a month long period only.(Voluntary Retirement Scheme)
Anyone got the truth?

Anyone else got the Directors list of Virtual Human Rescources? (seriously)
Any chance this VHR company is linked to upper management collecting on the recruitment of new pilots, to replace those leaving?

Would the shareholders agree to this?

[JD128]

Can anyone confirm if MK are re-advertising the ab-initio scheme? If so, has it already been in the papers and what is the new deadline?

Cheers

[UAU242]

JD128

It certainly hasn't come out yet, don't know when it will, so no new date yet....will send up a flare if i do see the ad.

[barel-roll]

Hi UAU242

have you any infos concerning the fleet renewal?
What about mk's choice? A330 or b777?
Are they still hiring on 319 and A340?

Thanks

[UAU242]

i'm the wrong person to ask! Maybe someone else would like to answer....

[Byjingo]

barel-roll,
No new aircraft and no improvement in conditions, just more resignations.:(

[barel-roll]

Thanks ,Byjingo,for replying
and I hope the conditions will improve quickly for you and your colleagues......

[VS1g]

To add to the state of affairs within Air Mauritius; there are some pilots on the ATR and Helicopter fleets that are within a month or so of their end of contract and MK are unable/unwilling to tell them if they have been given a new contract or not.

The state of affairs in MK is indicative of an amateurish management team running the company.

[Byjingo]

VS1g

Nothing will ever change there as they have such a mis-guided thought process and think they are the best.
It's a very sad situation.

[Foxtrot_Lima_Mike]

I've read that 2/3 of the pilots at MK are expats. I was wondering if any of those expats, especially those with years of service, had become chief pilot? Is there such a thing called ‘seniority’ at MK?

Isn’t there at least one chief pilot of even a director of ops among that management board? Someone that could standup for the entire flying crew of MK?

[Where are we now?]

Byjingo,
I fully agree with you and I don't agree with Dessas.
To quote a paragraph from Dessas's in a previous post on this topic-

Quote"mauritians

I do not agree about the local guys.
Most of the young ones are keen and motivated. Of course there are a few black sheep but generally I enjoy flying with the locals more!
As I said before one cannot expect the locals to grow out of their skin... Mauritius is a place with a very young nation (like 300 years only) and as a melting pot it is strange to a lot of guys from afar!
But take your time look around and have fun!" Unquote

So you enjoy flying with the locals more-now we know where we stand with you on these issues.

Turn the lights out when you're the last to leave the island, Dessas. I'm sure there are a few expats looking forward to doing their next flight with you!

[000]

Mk management continues its general deceiving task: after lying to their pilots about salaries for 1O months, they now announce that there won't be any fleet renewal....What is the next step?
Close the doors due to those bad expat guys who are going away everyday?
Staying with this company is now a human dignity issue.
Do they know what RESPECT means?:mad:

[UAU242]

So is L'Express accurate in reporting that MK will be leasing until the introduction of the A350 and 787?

[The Saviour]

Bwahahaha, yes then it will be delaying until the next supersonic transporter comes along. Rumours are everything will stay the same until the election, which is apparently a big issue in MRU.
Shame that its so political down there, Im sure if they brought in a few decent management with integrity, MK would thrive. Not to mention there would be less resignation and happier crew.

[Where are we now?]

Dessas-

JVJ
And this guy was visited by the Scorpions before his departure from SAA. I wonder if that is requirment to work for MK, to be visited by fraud squad.

Can you believe this?-quote
"The new EVP for Customer Services is Johan van Jaarsveld will be responsible for Customer Service, Flight Operations and Cabin Services, Global Passenger Services/Operations Control Centre. Van Jaarsveld is one of SAA?s seasoned entrepreneurs with extensive commercial and operational knowledge of the airline business. He is also one of SAA?s current key negotiators. Van Jaarsveld has excellent leadership qualities."unquote

http://ww1.flysaa.com/about_saa/media_corner/za_news_body2.jhtml?_DARGS=%2Fabout_saa%2Fmedia_corner%2Fza_ media_corner_content.jhtml.1_A&_DAV=1580

Excellent leadership qualities???

[G Jetson]

This has been tried before, a French guy, might have been from Air France, came in above the useless DFO to sort out all the problems.
As soon as he started to ruffle a few feathers they sacked him.
I'm sure the same thing will happen this time.
At least some good news this week, MK lost the court case with the sacked ATR captain.
The ATR Cheif Pilot should be sacked, he's way out of his depth.

[Where are we now?]

G Jetson,
I believe this Frenchman is now working at Snecma/CFM, where MK have to get there engine repairs or exchanges from. I'm sure he just loves it when he bills MK for a new engine or the necessary spares.

BTW, this ATR Captain you speak of-Is this the Madagascan Captain or the Aussie one? They both deserve a to win!

[The Saviour]

DESSAS

Unfortunately, Im not up to date about this new guy, only what my old friends tell me. I have heard similar things about this guy. However, I heard a lot about the ex french guy who was appointed to make operations more efficient. He wanted to make changes but management wasnt too keen on his ideas.
Anyway its nice to hear this ATR captain ended up winning, after all MK made it difficult for him to lose. Im sure those who were there during that period are well aware of what im talking about. The whole firing, re-hiring, promoting.
MK set the precedent a long time ago, if we went into that, it would be an entirely new thread.

[Byjingo]

WAWN
It was the Madagascan Captain, a really nice guy and a great result.
Of course the Mauritian f/o that was found to be lying will probably be promoted.

[xapatan]

WELL DONE

JUSTICE FOR ALL AND MORE TO COME....................

[Where are we now?]

Byjingo,
Again you are right, and I agree about that ATR Captain being very nice chap. The f/o is probably going to be the DFO as a result his lying ability. Another requirement to be in that management I suppose!

[Kep Ten Jim]

The Saviour -

Sorry, I'm confused. You said -

"after all MK made it difficult for him to lose."

So management helped him win then?

And what was the charge?

[Where are we now?]

Hold on Guys,
Wasn't it the South African ATR Captain that had the lying first officer (who now flies the A319)?

The Madagascan ATR Captain had a simlar problem (99-2000) and this was his court case that Mk lost, not so?

The Aussie chap is a third and different case completely.

[G Jetson]

Yes there were two cases, both of which the f/o's were caught out.
The SA Captain and the f/o were both sacked, later the f/o was re-instated then promoted to 319, he's friends with the DFO.
The Madagascan Captain was sacked and again the f/o promoted to jet.
The Aussie guy was shafted in the sim by the CP, and sacked.
This company's a real eye opener.

[The Saviour]

KTJ

Sorry about the confusion, that particular F/O was promoted. I was making a point about that other incident but after reading it, I see where the confusion is.
G Jetson cleared it all up.
Onto more current things, what's the latest with negotiations and so on down there? All seems to have quieten down...

[Byjingo]

What negotiations ?

[UAU242]

so whats the latest out of mk? Anything new? any new departures? same old story? any news on the choice of aircraft?

[G Jetson]

UAU242,
The latest is there's nothing new, no new aircraft, no improvement in conditions and more people resigning.
One ATR captain, who had been on the ATR for 4 years was offered a 319 f/o position but starting at year 1, no credit for the last 4 years and would actually have been on lower pay. He declined their kind offer and has now left for a better jet job elsewhere.
That is the thanks you get for 4 years of service.

[thefly]

any news on the december 2004 air mauritius ab-initio scheme , is it on hold?

[green lemon]

hello


it is possible to know the roster organisation and salary as F/O on A340?

Do you really need a permission to leave the island to go on holiday?

Do you get a bond for a transition from A320 to A340?

thanks a lot for reply

[Jinkster]

Any news on the requirements for low houred pilots ?

[4HolerPoler]

Dream on Jinks - you clearly don't have the quals for this position - I'm not trying to stifle your enthusiasm but get real and stop clogging this thread.

4HP

[Jinkster]

Sorry Mr Moderator, consider thread unclogged! :)

[ATRDriver]

4HP - Maybe you should contemplate the idea behind PPrune.com again. If this is how you moderate forums, I'm embarrassed to be contributing on this site.

I think you owe Jinkster an apology.

[4HolerPoler]

Then carry on being embarrassed my man - I'll send you a refund of your membership fees. My task is not an easy one but when a guy who lists his qualifications as indicative of just having completed his commercial licence, with his heaviest type a Piper Seminole then it is a little ambitious for him to be aspiring to an airline that historically requires thousands of hours of experience, specifically so from expatriate pilots.

If you're not happy with my moderation please send your thoughts to [email protected]

Now can we get on with this thread please? 4HP

[chrispatrickGA]

Who can give us some fresh news about that company...
It seemed recently that the conditions were dropping badly and as a consequence that most of the pilots were leaving the ship...
who can confirm that?:sad:

[000]

ATRCapt and A319 F/O earn 110 000 Rs/months all included, no medical insurance, no loss of licence insurance, no retirement scheme, no seniority, no respect from management and the Euro going up to 40 Rs from 32 Rs 10 months ago...that gives you an idea.
The morale is really very low among pilots due to a bunch of stupid managers (with an average of 27h/months on ATR they say the fleet is short of crews!!! can you believe that?). All pilots with the good ratings and experience are now willing to leave although most of them love living in Mauritius...but one needs to feed one's family!
Good luck.:uhoh:

[chrispatrickGA]

Sorry to hread that.... Cheers to JB anyhow, from an ancient from KHALIFA .
and hope you will have better time soon.

[TooBadSoSad]

Heard Johan Van Jaarsveld is now with Air Mauritius. If ever there was a pilot hater, that's your man. He was kicked out of SAA management for empire building. The rumour is that he was escorted off SAA's premises on the day he was "fired". He's nothing more than an ex-Railways manager, and with the appropriate mentality. Watch your backs!!

[fluffyfan]

True Story, flew with some cabin crew the other day who witnessed him being escorted out the building by the scorpions........still no idea why, hoping time will tell, sorry to you guys in Mauritius, you could not have got a worse man on your team, get rid of that A...hole ASAP the man has obviousley done something illegal/immoral and the whole thing has been covered up.

[Byjingo]

In that case he'll fit in perfectly with the Air Mauritius management !.

[Where are we now?]

I see in the latest Flight Int., in the back, Air Mauritius has it's two B767-200ER's FOR SALE, and to contact a number at MK Head Office in Port Louis, Mauritius.
So, what's happening and what going to happen to the present crew?

[000]

The expat pilot contracts state that if one's fleet ends then one's job ends too. Easy to downsize a cie with such contracts no? But presently at MK, employees prefer to whisper behind their boss, weep on the net and ultimately die in silence!!!
Its a real shame to see what's happening down there but one gets what one deserves...:ouch:

[VS1g]

The announcement of the new aircraft was due to be made today sometime, co-incident with the decleration of the annual profits.

[sandy hills]

As per the Air Mauritius web site this afternoon.........

Air Mauritius (MK) has announced its intention to acquire three new A340-300E (Enhanced) Airbus aircraft for a total value of USD 540M at current list prices, on conditions to be finalised and agreed upon between MK and Airbus. The announcement was made following the meeting of the board of directors on May 3, 2005.

The first two aircraft will be delivered end of October 2006 while the third one in October 2007, as initially scheduled. The national carrier reserves the right to choose a fourth aircraft in October 2009 and eventually a fifth one. The decision enables Air Mauritius to consider all options open while waiting for the commercialisation of the new generation aircraft currently under development by the two manufacturers.

The choice of the A340-300E was justified by technical, technological, operational, financial and commercial considerations allowing considerable economies of scale. With these new acquisitions, MK privileges the commonality benefits by optimising its existing Airbus infrastructure. It has already in its midst trained teams, spare parts and replacement engines as well as the tools necessary for the operation of the fleet already made up of five A340-300 aircraft.

The exercise of evaluation and selection was performed entirely by an in-house team for the first time. During the whole process the board of directors and the government were kept informed at all stages, because of the impact on the national economy. Following this decision and in accordance with the preliminary conditions, the selected supplier must now engage in an off-set program with the government of Mauritius.

This acquisition will allow MK to offer a brand new product, thus meeting the expectations of passengers. These new aircraft, with two class configuration, will be equipped with state-of-the-art seats and in-flight entertainment systems. This upgrading will also be extended to the existing models of the fleet.

The exercise takes account of the new strategic orientations of Air Mauritius which has, on one hand, rationalised its European routes and, in addition, redeployed its fleet for a more efficient operation.

Air Mauritius undertook a more ambitious task by carrying out long term projections in order to reconcile its needs with the market prospects. Indeed, not only the new technologies proposed today by the manufacturers were taken into account, but special consideration was given to the models currently being developed by the manufacturers. Thus the fleet renewal program was re-scheduled, keeping options open for a possible planned migration towards new technologies in the long term.

The national carrier of Mauritius contributes approximately up to 60% of tourist arrivals on the island. Air Mauritius customers consist of nearly 80% of foreign travelers, of which a majority of Europeans. With the inclusion of the three A340-300 Enhanced aircraft, Air Mauritius will increase its seat capacity on long haul by 30% while the cargo capacity will increase by 40%. With the rapid expansion of the hotel park and the growth recorded on its markets, Air Mauritius prepares itself to provide more capacity and to contribute even more actively to the economic development of the tourism value chain which depends to a large extent on Air Mauritius.

[ALTCRUISE]

My Word.....NEW a340`s.....the ENHANCED version noggal !!!!
I think by enhanced version, they mean the ones designed specifically for SINGLE PILOT OPERATION.......MUST BE !!!!!......there certainly arn`t going to be enough crew to operate this EXPANDING fleet in the forseeable future with the crew they have left.....never mind EXTRA planes !

Although the "winds of change" on this little speck in the middle of the Indian Ocean have a sweeter smell these days.....I hear RUMOURS that the HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCES was told to "take a hike"....or suddenly saw fit to resign just the other day.

WHAT NEXT ?????

A pay hike maybe ???????:E

[MarkD]

I understand 2 x 343E to replace 2 x 767 and the rest as fleet expansion.

[UAU242]

hi all
just wondering if anyone has heard ANYTHING whatsoever about the supposed cadet recruitment or was i just imagining things?
cheers
UAU

[Pontius' Pilot]

UAU242

I have heard nothing more than that which I gave you a while back on the phone.

[virage]

Hey flying folks,
Just sort of new on this forum. Read a lot of unpleasant staff about air Mauritius, but seems to me not different from any other place. Seriously spoken, have been offered a contract with you on the A 340, of course have my doubts. Here comes the most important for me and probably most boring question for you guys:
Who is mainly driving the 340 buses? Are those locals or expats?
Where to find suitable accommodation? I mean which area?
What is the atmosphere like?
Heard that you got a new CEO? Well spoke to one of your guys in the air, he told me that you are negotiating to be paid in EUR.
Guys please need a serious info; please only mature answers are appreciated.
Cheers.

[G Jetson]

virage,
In answer to your questions,
1 There is a mix of nationalities on the 340, predominantly expat.
2 Suitable accomodation, Grand Bay, Blue Bay or Black River, suitability is in the eyes of the beholder.
3 Atmosphere, morale is pretty low and not expected to improve much.
4 Pilots will never be paid in Euro, it just won't happen.

[Fahrenheit]

hi folks
just another newbee on the forums.

are MK recruiting low houred pilots on ATRs ? (with or without check on type)

cheers

[VS1g]

The dispute between the pilots union (AEA) and MK management is now official and appeared in the daily newspapers yesterday.

[TooBadSoSad]

I see it has not taken JVJ very long to get up to his old tricks. If you guys at MK need any info or assistance I suggest you contact the SAA pilot's union. I am sure they would be more than happy to give you some guidance as to how to deal with the "pilot hater". Their email is [email protected]

[ALTCRUISE]

To all of you out there considering working for AIR MAURITIUS.

BE CAREFUL !!!! THINK BEFORE YOU JUMP !!!!!

This topic has pretty much been covered extensively, but I would like as few people to burn their fingers as possible.

We are losing PILOTS and INSTUCTORS at an alarming rate at the moment, many of these are DIE-HARDS, who have been here for a long time,...and even THEY do not see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Directly, it is the attitude of those at FLIGHT OPS effecting the morale,...indirectly, it is the TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT attitude of those higher up......!

Some points to consider:
1)As an EXpat, you have no rights, you are entitled to what your contract states, no more, no less.
As to cost-of-living adjustments to your salary, or any other shortfall you may experience in this ever changing world,....you are owed NOTHING !!!!(We are in arbitration with the company at the moment regarding promises made .)
2)This is a THIRD WORLD ISLAND,...the resorts are stunning, the rest is a mess,....if you do come for an interview, spend a few extra days and check out the place as much as possible, find some crew, ask questions,.....the honeymoon lasts about 6 months, then reality sinks in,....and for the present salary package, it really is`nt worth it....unless ofcourse you have no job at all!
3)When your landlord hears you are air Mauritius Crew,....expect an incredibly high rent for the DUMP you are going to live in (70% of the houses).....These houses usualy leak when it rains....almost every day on the EAST COAST....the extreme humidity during 8 months of the year causes EVERYTHING to rust and rot.
4)Water pressure to your plumbing is INCONSISTANT and usually LOW,....the electricity also cuts out at least a few times per week,...and when it comes on again, it SURGES, thereby BLOWING any decent electrical appliances that may be switched on and running, namely FRIDGE, COMPUTER ect.
5)The cost of living has sky-rocketed in the past 5 years....you are not going to have much change in you pocket if you have a family, especially on the present salary structure when you join.
6)You are basically LOCKED on the Island,....you need the Chief Pilot`s permission to leave the Island.......and your roster is constructed in such a way that you can`t leave for a few days anyway.....not unusual to get "off off stby off off".........!

At the end of the day, all I am saying is, this is a unique enviroment to be based in,....the mantra here is not to try and do 2 things in 1 day....you will get your blood-pressure in the red.

If we had a BLOCK ROSTER like CHINA.....you could work hard, and then go back to civilization for a while, get you sense of humour back,...and start another cycle.......but that idea has been shot down over here as well.

The pity is that this could be a great place to work,...if the Crew were treated as part of the TEAM,.....and not the ENEMY.

Life is full of choices
Good luck and safe landings to you all.

[Kep Ten Jim]

Well thanks for that ALTCRZ -

Perhaps not as rosy as 4HP who "left with a heavy heart (but no regrets)" makes out!

I think possibly, 4HP was one of the SAA secondees who came out early days. Things have changed since '99

[4HolerPoler]

Nope, not a secondee. Sure, things have changed since '99 but in '95 and in '90 and in '85 and I'm sure in 2010 there will always be those taking advantage of the benefits offered by working for MK; there will also be those shooting themselves in the foot and losing a golden opportunity - if only they'd kept their heads down - no need for brown-nosing just stay out of politics & the limelight as an expat.

Make your bed & sleep in it - it's an enviable job - respect it as such. My tuppence-worth.

4HP

[ruffrider]

ALTCRZ

Your points are all valid, but you failed to mention the fact that if your wife/family can't hack it on the island, then the chances are your employment with the airline is likely to be short lived! Some of the guys commute, but most (if not all) will tell you that it is tough and the added expense of running two homes makes the salary package even less attractive.
Thought it important to mention this

[Sooty]

I know there are a heap of guys who jumped ship and are in Emirates. I live and work in the UAE, not interested in working for Emirates under present conditions...but would love to work in Mauritius. I guess it's the grass being greener business and also the matter of lifestyle over conditions. If there are any Emirates pilots who have come from Mauritius I would l be interested in hearing your thoughts about the two options. Not knocking Emirates but pretty much everyone I've spoken to from there regrets leaving their last job and was wondering if it was the same for you guys.

Cheers

[dessas]

Please check your PMs.

[paillenqueue]

Now watch the heads roll

[UAU242]

I suppose the election result and consequent re-shuffle will mean another year's delay to cadet recruitment..

[dingduck2]

Provided the rotten heads roll too...

[dingduck2]

Not necessarily , rumour has it that they are looking at aprox 10 trainees. Of course, needless to say best qualifications don't mean better chances in that cesspit... but f/ops has or will lose 40 drivers so, they must be getting desperate soon !

[UAU242]

good luck to all those attending this week's aptitude tests!

[Propbrake]

Hi guys

Looking for Nick Hird.Last I heard he was flying ATR 72's for Air Mauritius.Can anyone help.

Know this thread isn't really for this but would really like to contact him.

[Pontius' Pilot]

Propbrake

PM me for info on Nick

[Phoebe Buffet]

Propbrake: Nick's is now married with a baby and working for Gulf Air flying a Bus.

[MAX]

I see MK are advertising for 767 F/O's and the pay deal is quoted in Euros. Will they actually pay in Euros and is there any improvement on the previous pay structure?

MAX:cool:

[Byjingo]

Max,
In answer to your question, no and no.
If they advertised to pay in Mauritian Rupees no one would turn up, it has devalued something like 25% in 3 years.
Especially as it is already a low paying company.

Conditions have not changed, AFAP have been constantly attempting to raise the pay/allowances etc without much success.

Occasionally the company will throw out a carrott of new aircraft arriving or something similar but in the end they are found out to be lying.

It's very dissapointing for those who go there for a career and expect to stay to find out what they've been led to believe or told by the company is all BS.
As you can see from previous posts on the subject quite a few end up leaving once the realisation of the situation sets in.

[MAX]

Thanks Byjingo,

The following quote from their website is therefore to 'trick' applications?

"Note:
1. The basic salary and other allowance stated in items 1-5 above are payable in Euros "

:mad:

MAX:cool:

[james64]

Hi boys and girls

Parc aviation is looking for 340 2nd officers with some interesting money: 5000 euro/month with shack. They throw in some extra 700 for food and beer. Have heard from some mates in the gulf that a lot of guys are very unhappy and many have left in big numbers. What's the take? :confused:

[Woof etc]

Dont see anything on the Parc Web site. Whats the deal?

[MasterYoda]

Sorry Danny, you've just moved a very important topic to the wrong forum.
Actually, what I just heard from the air Mauritius guys could have an impact on us all. We are talking flight time limitations here, making captains go into and beyond discretionand, union busting, intimidation and persecution of unions, that is all kinds of stuff that once one airline has got away with it, all kinds of jokers will think tehy can do it too. These guys are having their balls broken and they are threatened with loosing their jobs if they do not do it with a smile. The stuff I heard is eye popping. Ryanair isn't the only one. These guys feel like their paradise lost. Read the letter from IFALPA to the chairman of AIr mauritius. It is self explanatory.

20th October 2005
Mr. Sanjay Bhuckory
Chairman of Air Mauritius
Level 19, Air Mauritius Centre
John Kennedy Street
Port Louis
Mauritius
Dear Mr Bhuckory,
I am writing to you as President of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations
(IFALPA), which represents more than 100,000 professional pilots in more than 90 countries
worldwide, to express my concerns about the current state of affairs surrounding Dr Russlan
Ramdowar, President of the Mauritius Air Line Pilots Association (MALPA).
As you may be aware, Dr Ramdowar brought to my attention some time ago various practices that
were taking place in Air Mauritius that had given him cause for concern with regard to air safety.
These concerns essentially dealt with the incorrect interpretation of UK CAP 371, on which the
Mauritian flight time legislation is based, and what can only be described as bullying and
intimidation by some individuals in Air Mauritius management to improperly coerce captains into
using their discretion to exceed duty day limitations.
These issues are of concern in themselves, and I have brought them to the attention of the Mauritian
Civil Aviation Department where I have been assured they are being investigated. However, I am
now deeply disturbed to learn that Dr Ramdowar, for acting quite properly in his role as President
of MALPA, has now been de-rostered for in excess of fifty days and is being asked to subject
himself to psychological assessment before being returned to flying duties.
In my view this is a totally unacceptable situation and one without precedent in the industry. Any
independent observer can only conclude that Dr Ramdowar is now being persecuted for his
involvement in legitimate trade union activity, and it would seem clear to me that this conduct falls
well outside the International Labour Organisation Conventions 87 and 98, to which Mauritius is a
signatory. Further to this, Dr Ramdowar has shown no reason at all as to why his psychological
state should be in question. However, what is even more disturbing is that this judgement seems to
have been made by individuals with no medical qualifications whatsoever.
This is not a situation that should be allowed to continue. In my experience, successful airlines are
those where a true partnership exists between the management and the employees and in particular
the pilots. I understand that your appointment as Chairman of Air Mauritius is recent and this does,
I believe, give you a unique opportunity to resolve both the wider issues in the company and the
particular position of Dr Ramdowar. I would therefore urge you to return Dr Ramdowar to flying
duties and to join with him and the rest of the MALPA team in addressing the wider issues of
concern.Please rest assured that IFALPA shall be giving both MALPA as our Member association and Dr
Ramdowar as an individual our full support.
Yours sincerely,
Captain Dennis J. Dolan
President
IFALPA

[CargoOne]

In my experience, successful airlines are those where a true partnership exists between the management and the employees

I always thought that successful airlines are those where the annual report figures are black... :}

[L337]

and they are black because a.....

true partnership exists between the management and the employees

[james64]

Holy cow!

I hope that the guys at Parc Aviation know where they are sending the people. Looking at their add for 2nd oficers for Air Mauritus, I was a bit shocked to see the paragraph 17:


17 SICKNESS
Following two days absence due to illness, the crewmember will be required to attend the Air Mauritius doctor or a doctor designated by Air Mauritius. Following five consecutive days illness in any one month period, days on which the crewmember would have been on duty, then the contract of that crew-member may be terminated.

Hope they don't have things like cholera over there... That put you in bed for more than 5 days...

I guess I will steer clear of that place:yuk:

Please check the other forum below. It is a year old, but the troubles are still fresh by the sounds of it. WHo runs such an outfit? Makes Malaysian look like a a bunch of amateurs... Bet O\'Leary might get some inspiration too


PPRuNe Forums » Rest of the World & Non-English Language Forums » African Aviation » Air Mauritius - not the ideal paradise!

:uhoh:

[james64]

Deal is as below. But this are problems by the sounds of it. Have a look at the main rumours and news forum. WHat is reflected in th eprevious posts here seem to confirm that its a trouble spot there.


Parc Aviation Outline Proposal for the Supply of
Airbus 340 First Officers to Air Mauritius is as follows:


1 BASE OF OPERATION Plaisance SSR Airport, Mauritius

2 OPERATOR Air Mauritius

3 REQUIREMENT Airbus 340 in flight relief First Officers

4 COMMENCEMENT DATE
01st October 2005 to end January 2006
5 OPERATIONAL CONTROL It is understood that the crewmembers will be leased to Air Mauritius and that Air Mauritius
shall have authority to direct the work of the crewmembers.

6 PAYMENTS




Per month (pro rata)

A340 Relief First Officer € 5,000
7 BLOCK HOURS 80 hours per month. Hours in excess at 1/80th of monthly charge.

8 PER DIEM A per diem allowance of €700 per month pro rata shall be payable to each crewmember.

9 DAYS OFF Air Mauritius shall allow the crewmember 8 days free of duty in each 28 days period and in accordance with the Flight Operations Manual. It is understood that the crewmembers will remain in Mauritius for the duration of the contract period.

10 ACCOMMODATION Air Mauritius shall provide:
- housing accommodation, in the proximity of the airport
- hotel accommodation at layover stations other than base.
- accommodation standard to be mutually agreed between Parc and Air Mauritius.

11 GROUND TRANSPORTATION Air Mauritius shall provide:
- all ground transportation to/from airfields at base when on duty.
- all ground transportation to/from airfields at layover stations other than base.

12 AIR TRANSPORTATION Air Mauritius shall provide:
- firm / positive air transportation at commencement and termination of contract
- access to concession travel privileges
13 ANNUAL LEAVE Two days per month of completed duty to be allocated by the company in accordance with operational demand. In the event that leave is not given by the Company then the days due will be paid at contract end.

14 PAYMENT / INSURANCE In accordance with Contract Agreement.

15 VALIDATIONS/LICENCES Where required Air Mauritius to arrange and obtain any necessary license validations or permits.

16 PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE Parc provide each one of the personnel with Personal Accident and Emergency Insurance.

17 SICKNESS Following two days absence due to illness, the crewmember will be required to attend the Air Mauritius doctor or a doctor designated by Air Mauritius. Following five consecutive days illness in any one month period, days on which the crewmember would have been on duty, then the contract of that crew-member may be terminated.




The above outline proposal would form the basis of an agreement between Parc Aviation Ltd and The Airline. As a customer focussed organisation, we would encourage early dialogue to achieve a mutually beneficial contract Agreement.


23RD September 2005

[VS1g]

This is an embattled company. Truly very sad because many have had great times there working for what was once a great company, and a lovely place to live.

The exodus of pilots that has caused the present shortage is, I am told, a result of the managers that do what is referred to in the first post, plus an ongoing wage negotiation that has been unresolved for more than 14 months. A matter so important to the company that the first meeting between unions and the new MD was cancelled for whatever reason.

Apparently the ability to recruit pilots has become so difficult that entry standards that were once applied have had to be lowered in order to get a few new recruits. Low crew numbers have led to high monthly hours being flown, flight and duty manipulations, and there are insufficient crew to cover flights with standbys.

These pilots certainly appear to need outside support.

[MasterYoda]

Check this.

Mauritian union leader victimised for sending an email

The president of the Mauritian Airline Pilots’ Professional Association (MALPA), Russlan Ramdowar, has been effectively suspended for writing a private email in his capacity as a union leader.

For several years, pilots based in Mauritius have complained of the undermining of their rights, working conditions and payments while training, as well as the lack of a policy on promotion.

Their anger exploded when a new method of calculating flying hours was introduced, allowing management to increase flying schedules to the extent of exceeding international norms and putting flight crews and passengers at risk. Fifty-five pilots have been fired since November 2004 for opposing the measures.

Ramdowar sent the email to the International Federation of Airline Pilots’ Association (IFALPA) to ask whether the new method of calculating flying hours was legal. On August 31, the airline informed Ramdowar that he had been immediately “de-rostered” for sending the email. Ramdovar has countered that the email was intercepted illegally and in violation of his rights as a trade union leader. The case has been taken up by the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU).

[Team Player]

Another staff-aggressive "management", the sole forte of which is butt kicking rather than intellectual, smart managing.

And pray tell, what does this "new method of calculating flying hours" consist of?

[Team Player]

As a customer focussed organisation, we would encourage early dialogue to achieve a mutually beneficial contract Agreement.In other words, the contract is NEGOTIABLE.

"17 SICKNESS Following two days absence due to illness, the crewmember will be required to attend the Air Mauritius doctor or a doctor designated by Air Mauritius. Following five consecutive days illness in any one month period, days on which the crewmember would have been on duty, then the contract of that crew-member may be terminated."
Anyone voluntarily agreeing to THAT would have to have rocks in their head.

"10 ACCOMMODATION Air Mauritius shall provide:
- housing accommodation, in the proximity of the airport
- hotel accommodation at layover stations other than base.
- accommodation standard to be mutually agreed between Parc and Air Mauritius.
Why is this a matter solely between PARC and the airline. This is something that will have a direct,regular bearing on your (the pilot's) life.
Quite simply, the accommodation must be International 5 Star standard.
Write THAT in the contract.

[VS1g]

Interesting discussion on the Main Rumours forum about MK

[MarkD]

hope people using their work emails to make those kind of queries take note!

[sandy hills]

For any unfortunate soul who is even considering looking at this mess of an airline, you need to also consider the mess the financial affairs of the island are in at the moment.
Forex is basically impossible to get at the moment. Most guys want to move there money off shore for whatever reason, and the banks won't sell because they have nothing to sell. Tried to get USD5000 for past two weeks and both HSBC and MCB say no forex available.
Rumour has it a major devaluation is around the corner.....
There go our salaries again....... The price of living in paradise....

[leginheli]

Does anybody know how I can get hold of Brent Curtin? Last I heard he was flying for AirMauritius.

[Maris Otter]

Regarding the second officer contracts via Parc:
5 F/Os from SAS are on their way for a 4 month contract as S/O on the 340. I believe they will work for scraps, but it is not hard to find motivation to leave the Scandinavian winter.
These guys are the most senior F/Os in SAS, and have just had their commanders course cancelled(again) as the company are cutting routes and reducing fleet again. Leaving the sinking ship, at least temporarily, is of course tempting as well.

Wish them luck!!

[dead as a dodo]

Marris, what planet are you on. If you think these guys will be working for scraps, what do you think we all work for then??? Guess it's what comes out after eating the scraps.....
Command courses being cancelled, cold winters, lets bring out the violins to greet these boys or girls on arrival.
Wish them luck, I think not!!!! We are trying to get meetings to get a better settlement here and these guys are just thumbing their noses at our predicament. This package might be scraps to them, but for the underpaid of MK it's certainly not.

[Maris Otter]

Well, I am sorry that irony apparantly was somewhat misplaced in this setting.
My appologies!

M O

[MasterYoda]

Hi guys!

Please log on to the main rumours and news thread of MK called "MK defies IFALPA" I think it would be important that your contributions go in there!

:ok: :ok: :ok:

[Blah Blah Fishpaste]

Its a sad state of affairs gents i agree, but take solice in the fact that MA is not the only company with selfish managment!

The grass isnt always much greener on the other side, but if the grass you are standing on is already brown....then hello greener side!:ok:

[Emma Ritz]

Hi African PPRuNers ...

I am very keen to have a chat to any past or present Air Mauritius pilots who could give me the low down on what to expect at their interview / psych test / sim assessment?

I'd also be interested in hearing what the company is actually like, is there a good expat community, what sort of lifestyle can you live (on jet FO wages).

Already been reading the other Mauritius thread on rumors & news, ok I get the general idea it isn't industrial relations paradise but I still reckon its better than where I am now.

Any replies via thread or PM would be gratefully received.

Regards

Emma Ritz

[Deskjocky]

You are made of stern stuff if youve read the other threads and your still keen! Think things will get better if JVJ has been shown the door though

[Anti-Skid Inop]

You could log onto their website: www.airmauritius.com.

On the site they have the Terms and Conditions of employment (Expat Crew) with salary structures and package details.

Hope this helps you!

[wingmaaan]

hi guys and gals,

does anyone have some detailed information about the interview and the psycho-test at air mauritius for atr-pilots??

many thanks

[Duff Man SA]

things will get better if JVJ has been shown the door though

Can anyone confirm the rumour that JVJ has in fact just left Air Mauritius?(maybe fired?)