Another 22 pilots are upgraded this August (that's 10 percent of all pilots).

Until now, more than 30 are already upgraded (or in process). All-in-all, 25 percent of all pilots have been upgraded within the first two years of operation. Having said that, the company has about 70 CPTs not upgrading...

Early next year it's another 20+ upgrades.

Upgrade is only based on seniority for everyone fulfilling the minimum requirements.

The company takes fewer and fewer direct entry RCAs and CPTs. Still they need to 'cause they cannot upgrade fast enough. When training dept. is up to speed, they will hire only FOs.

I believe the above is honest from the company's perspective, is impressive and fair for all.

Boeing operator is on the money....
I think we need to keep it in perspective as legacy carrier pilots wait decades for promotion possibilities,
And it's available fairly rapidly at NLH.

Yes but it's better to be an F/O with a legacy than a Captain with an LCC.

What ever makes you happy...

If I may offer some perspective from a buddy who's a chef.. He'd rather be cooking in a well established, respectable restaurant with demanding customers than doing (exactly) the same thing at some run down family joint with 2-for-1 chicken wings and tequila happy hour.

While the job once the flight deck door closes remains the same regardless of tail markings, there is a lot to be said for being associated with a respectable airline, brand and image. There may well be an elephant in the room regarding this, but many of us take pride in our company, customers and reputation.

Hence many (most?) will prefer FO at a legacy to a command at a LCC.

@quadspeed

Exactly, whatever makes everyone happy.

However, what you're also saying is that some prefer flying as a CPT in a LCC rather than as FO in a legacy carrier. I am one of them. For me, the comparison is between Norwegian long haul and SAS since I live in Scandinavia. I would not change to a FO position with SAS :=

Whereas I take pride in what I do and it doesn't matter what colour the fin is.

I'm not convinced that the reputation of your airline, whoever it is, rubs off on you as much as you like to think.

Completely understandable. Our choices are driven by motivation, and motivation varies Some like status. Some like being at home every night. Some like the size of their jet. And some just need to get the bills paid.

Maybe not. But my passengers certainly believe they are getting something more than just a nice bottle of Merlot for that first class ticket. And perception goes a long way my friend.

Yes, but that's different to you, as a pilot, being associated with whichever airline.

In my humble opinion, customers who pay 30,000 usd for a ticket come to expect something resembling the Company's profile also from the staff.. maybe especially from the flight deck crew. For some, being held to a perceived high standard is important. You may be surprised how many retired ex Legacy Captains find it hard to adjust to being just another Joe Blow. And that is all about you, the pilot.

You are just another Joe Blow, doesn't matter a jot who you work for.

If one thinks that one isn't then one has an ego problem.

I"m sorry but you failed to get my point. We were discussing what motivates people. What your opinion is on someone else's motivation is irrelevant to the discussion.

Huh? Discussing what motivates people but opinions on it are irrelevant. There's no discussion then is there!

And when have you experienced 'quality' Chesty?! 3 years only on Boeings in that 'Gutter' of the North - when you've been part of something special, a two-way employer and rewarded well, you'll get what Quadspeed is saying.

Don't forget to say 'Have a great Holiday'!

All I'm saying is that there is more to employment than just driving the thing.

Walking through the lounge and down the jet bridge I for one feel a part of something larger. From the beds in first class to the wine selection in business, our product is of a high standard and we price it accordingly. Our customers certainly appreciate our product , and I'm proud to be a part. I speak to our customers with pride in our airline, and know that they expect nothing less than excellence in return for their money.

Whatever way you choose to look at it, it feels good to be a part of it and I for one would rather sit there with 3 stripes than in some flying circus with four.

And if choosing otherwise, then I think we can discuss your mention of who's ego needs checking.

Sean, been there done that and I'm not likely to spread my entire career history over pprune just for you. I'm now more than happy with my current choice thanks.

Taking you as an example - even now you're a bright eyed new boy at BA you're still the same noob as always.

By the way your use of single quotation marks to highlight your opinion is wrong.

You can take your vitriolic attitude and shove it.

OMG quad speed, you've swallowed the huggy fluffy stuff.

Is your definition of excellence dropping engine parts all over North London. :D

It is of course, horses for courses.
But I've gotta say my roster is sweet. My leave is allocated. 10 days off a month contracted from November.

I don't have any major complaints

Hows that € rate coming along, £1 =€1.45 ?

10 days off per month, on long haul?

Good grief. But no " major" complaints so alls well 😜