billythekid,

Yes, it will affect the smaller operators. The G5 guys are less likely to move--big pay cut from 160k-200k and the risk of being on the bottom of a list. They're usuall older and more settled, too.

To comment on FTB's list:

3 maybe minimum, but 4 is best and 5 is standard for Int'l operators. We have 22 + a Chief for 4 planes; several of the heavy international operators like one of the big banks has 7 per plane. Nice to fly with different folks, too.

Do they have full-time tech,(s) if not, look for the exits. It's one thing to deal with a sick plane away from home, but it's not your job at home. A number of operators take a tech on overseas trips, we do for Africa.

Do they use a F/A? It's become the standard for any international trips or bigger planes on domestic trips. He/she handles the safety briefs, catering for everyone, deals with the TV, DVD, Internet questions or problems. Yes, we have to jump in connecting to the Dirc TV or Internet sometimes, but the cabin is "out back".

Do they charter it? If so, think real hard about the job. None, and I mean NONE, of the good operations charter out the plane. Clue here is it a "managed" plane by EJM, for example. Chartering means clueless passengers, damage, more flying than the Boss has visibility on.

If more than one type on property, how many types do the pilots fly? Correct answer is no more than 2, but one type is a coming thing.

If international, they should have a scheduler(s) on staff and an international trip handler on retainer. We have schedulers who do the basic planning, scheduling with passengers and a retained handler who meets the plane, escorts the pax thru customs and does the same for the crew. Pilots do not have to make arrangements for ground handling, we're not far from the airlines on this one. Van is expected to be wanting, if not, it's call to the handler.

If it is a "family, high wealth" deal expect the same standards. I'd veer away from them, based on my very limited experience, but some guys love 'em. One I know of is so horrible that 500K wouldn't get me there.

If they don't stay at Marriotts or Hiltons or fly overseas business class, you might stay away. The points are good, but if you're going to overseas locations the security and service, not to mention a bit of the USA, are invaluable. I can hack a Courtyard in the US with a rental car, but not in Asia.

Where do they go? Can you live with it? Some people love variety, you might not. I know a very good local operator who 95% of the time go to he same three cities. Hotel greets them like family, tee times are set, cars waiting. They usually are there for 3-4 days, if longer, they ferry home. I'd be bored to tears.

Just one man's advice,

GF