Excel Airways
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 98
Likes: 11
From: UK
Most of these negative comments seem to refer to the 757/767 fleet, the one merged from Air Atlanta, and those that have come with it.
As most of us here are really interested in the 737 fleet, as that was what the advert was for, probably as we are already rated with time on type, could some of the 737 pilots comment on what has been said.
Is the roster on the 737 unstable? Are people very unhappy or is it as one or two here have said, a minority of contractors?
On the plus side I understand there's some good varied flying to be had, a decent salary - and I am not comparing to the like of RYR here but to other loco 2 sector operators - and probably a very quiet winter. For those who don't want to fly the 757's, would this be so bad?
As most of us here are really interested in the 737 fleet, as that was what the advert was for, probably as we are already rated with time on type, could some of the 737 pilots comment on what has been said.
Is the roster on the 737 unstable? Are people very unhappy or is it as one or two here have said, a minority of contractors?
On the plus side I understand there's some good varied flying to be had, a decent salary - and I am not comparing to the like of RYR here but to other loco 2 sector operators - and probably a very quiet winter. For those who don't want to fly the 757's, would this be so bad?
Moderator
Joined: Dec 1997
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 4,929
Likes: 6
From: Suffolk UK
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: In a van down by the hanger
My .02$
Excel is a good company. The line Cap’s I have flown with (management included) were more than helpful no attitudes just normal people going to work. There are a couple of wieners but the majority are very relaxed and easy to get a long with. The trips are mostly good. (excluding sharm, and all night ter)
I have made the effort to introduce myself to the 75/76 crews and they have been nothing like some of the posts would have you believe. There worse. No just joking there grate. one crew even gave me a tour of the mighty 76. I only got nervous when he kept calling me Timmy and asked if I liked gladiator movies.
The only real problem I have is scheduling, 100 in 28 is a goal. We are short captains and fo’s so they make everyone pick up the slack. They don’t relies it just burns more out and we keep getting shorter and those that are left have to carry the load. The thought process is to hire full time so this doesn’t happen again next year and I hope it works.
This link is accurate for pay scales and contact info: http://www.pilotjobsnetwork.com/fact...3h521ggcusvrhe
Excel still doing joint work with Miami Air?
Yes, But it is not Excel crews, they send storm contractors that have green cards or the right to work in the US. I have asked about it and a lot of people don’t think it is fair on both sides of the pond. I think BALPA is looking into making some changes.
Excel is a good company. The line Cap’s I have flown with (management included) were more than helpful no attitudes just normal people going to work. There are a couple of wieners but the majority are very relaxed and easy to get a long with. The trips are mostly good. (excluding sharm, and all night ter)
I have made the effort to introduce myself to the 75/76 crews and they have been nothing like some of the posts would have you believe. There worse. No just joking there grate. one crew even gave me a tour of the mighty 76. I only got nervous when he kept calling me Timmy and asked if I liked gladiator movies.
The only real problem I have is scheduling, 100 in 28 is a goal. We are short captains and fo’s so they make everyone pick up the slack. They don’t relies it just burns more out and we keep getting shorter and those that are left have to carry the load. The thought process is to hire full time so this doesn’t happen again next year and I hope it works.
This link is accurate for pay scales and contact info: http://www.pilotjobsnetwork.com/fact...3h521ggcusvrhe
Excel still doing joint work with Miami Air?
Yes, But it is not Excel crews, they send storm contractors that have green cards or the right to work in the US. I have asked about it and a lot of people don’t think it is fair on both sides of the pond. I think BALPA is looking into making some changes.
Last edited by fxbat; 6th October 2006 at 10:03.
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 48
Likes: 0
From: uk
Rosters change sometimes, but as I have said before your days off don't unless you want to sell them to the company. So does it matter if your going to RHO or SMI or where ever.
I think it is true that the skippers are flying flat out but I only have 55 hours on my roster this month about 60 last and 70 July and August, so I don't think that is to much, and I expect the winter will be very quiet.
I think it is true that the skippers are flying flat out but I only have 55 hours on my roster this month about 60 last and 70 July and August, so I don't think that is to much, and I expect the winter will be very quiet.
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: FRANCE AIX EN PROVENCE
I am considering putting an application into Excelairways after seeing their advert in Flight. I don't know anyone there and would like to know what is the general feel about the company, and what sort of salary would you be on as a 767 Captain?
I would understand if you did not want to put this information out to the general public, however I would appreciate a PM.
Thanks!
I would understand if you did not want to put this information out to the general public, however I would appreciate a PM.
Thanks!
-01 Boeing 737-400
-12 Boeing 737-800 + 04 In 2007
-04 Boeing 757-200
-O5 Boeing 767-300
I only have those information but as you I am considering putting an application into Excelairways. I don't know anyone there and would like to know what is the general feel about the company, and what sort of salary would you be on as a 737 Captain?
I would appreciate somes informations.
Best regards,
ALCHPA
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: LONDON
Any1 heard any news bout LGW, I understand some have been offered places at MAN. Was just wondering whether any1 had been offered employment (or informed otherwise) specifically at LGW on the 737?
Thanks in advance
Thanks in advance
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 1,695
Likes: 1
From: Egcc
Latest;
XL Leisure Group sold in £237m MBO
30 Oct 2006
Icelandic conglomerate Avion Group has sold XL Leisure Group for $450m (£237m) to a buy-out vehicle led by current CEO Phillip Wyatt.
XL Leisure Group comprises Excel Airways Group in the UK, Star Airlines in France and Star Europe in Germany.
Excel brands in the UK include XL.com, Travel City Direct, Kosmar, Excel Holidays, Aspire and Freedom Flights. It is the fifth largest travel group in the UK with a combined ATOL requirement of 1.1m to Sept07.
Could this make a difference..............?
PP
XL Leisure Group sold in £237m MBO
30 Oct 2006
Icelandic conglomerate Avion Group has sold XL Leisure Group for $450m (£237m) to a buy-out vehicle led by current CEO Phillip Wyatt.
XL Leisure Group comprises Excel Airways Group in the UK, Star Airlines in France and Star Europe in Germany.
Excel brands in the UK include XL.com, Travel City Direct, Kosmar, Excel Holidays, Aspire and Freedom Flights. It is the fifth largest travel group in the UK with a combined ATOL requirement of 1.1m to Sept07.
Could this make a difference..............?
PP
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: UK
Marvo and 747,
I'm still waiting to hear also re:737 but no news. I've tried a follow up but no replies. Did they give you any idea of when you might hear? They seemed a nice bunch when I met them so my fingers are firmly crossed. Good luck to you anyway.
Oggy
I'm still waiting to hear also re:737 but no news. I've tried a follow up but no replies. Did they give you any idea of when you might hear? They seemed a nice bunch when I met them so my fingers are firmly crossed. Good luck to you anyway.
Oggy
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: LONDON
Was supposed to be last week possibly running into this week. I imagine it will run into next week at the very least. Still working out how many guys they need for next year.
Playing the waiting game now, can't be too many of us (well 3 on this forum so far). All the best when the decision does come marvo+ oggy oggy
Playing the waiting game now, can't be too many of us (well 3 on this forum so far). All the best when the decision does come marvo+ oggy oggy
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: LONDON
All the best Marvo, I too have started to look down other avenues, however, company I am with still have failed to expand at my base. If they do ever offer me a place??? I may well see you on the crew bus rushing to X car park, how I miss the those days
All the best at Easy.. hope the A319 is as rewardable to fly as the mighty 737! I've heard it's a nice base there
74 Downind
All the best at Easy.. hope the A319 is as rewardable to fly as the mighty 737! I've heard it's a nice base there
74 Downind
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 104
Likes: 2
From: North of Watford
I think it is rather sad news that the Avion Group has sold its part of the Excel group and associated companies. Please be very aware that the reason that the Avion Group got so involved in the first place was it took shares in lieu of payment for the use of its B767's for a summer season that I believe cost 40 % and next year another 40%...... Excel is not what one would call a very profitable company. With the present management I have my doubts as to its viability. Perhaps someone with more info might like to comment. £250 mil seems to be a great price for the Avion Group shareholders to rid themselves of a real dead duck
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 127
Likes: 0
From: SE England
Although I am no great city buff,I get the same feeling as Saddest.This MBO was a coup for Avion,even if it only gets them out of the business with some of their money intact.The buy out team's financing is heavily underwritten by Avion(who have now changed their name to something a bit more Icelandic;Hlutafelagid Eimskipafelag Islands).The 2006-7 winter operations are underscored by Avion too.It all comes to an end in March 2008 when the thing must stand up financially by itself.This will be about the same time new A330s are due to arrive,with all the attendant investment and costs to get that fleet going.More recent management structure changes,Eamonn Mullaney's retirement(nice timing Mr M!), rebranding,ongoing problems with an ageing 757 and 767 fleet,morale problems in both the flight and head office workforce and a rarely seen distant leadership all suggest some serious challenges to pull the thing off.I wish them luck.
