Originally Posted by
4everFO
Long term, yes we will need to hopefully hire a ton of pilots. Remember though that if this massive wide body order comes to light there are a few things to consider:
1. Delivery slots will more than likely be a couple or more years away.
2. How many jets are destined to wear the Dragonair (KA) livery.
3. What will the outcome of the SO by pass pay case be. (if the company loses the appeal, they have to assess all 250+ SOs before they can hire a FO).
I have heard that the order, if placed, will double the current fleet.
FO
Good points all 4everFO. However, I do think that we are no longer overstaffed and we are now fast approaching the other end of the spectrum. I expect that the company will offer a deal to the majority of the SOs so as to meet their demand for expansion while minimizing their training burden. As we know Cathay always gets what it wants.
In any case, for those in the pool and for prospective DEFOs it's looking more promising now than any time in the last three years.