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Originally Posted by capt_zman
I think it's comical that the company is so desperate for 11 FO's. I've only been waiting over a year to go to class and they keep bumping me back a couple of weeks at a time for reasons unknown to me. Maybe the company should spend more of an effort on figuring out how to get more productivity (more sims, more instructors, etc) out of their md11 training program than trying to save a few bucks on a new contract.
I agree with most of this. However, they are maxed out on training and have been considering send more guys offsite. There is another sim on the way, but it takes a long time to set up and recertify. Also, the situation is fluid and "clogs" in the pipeline occur - ie. "unscheduled" ETs for those having difficulties (heard of some "nuggets" getting ETs and some knucklehead upgrading FOs to CAPT getting some as well - no excuse for not being prepared for these guys!). Also, all the instructors are out flying FO trips at time and a half!
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Also, is it true that is costs somewhere between 25-30 million dollars to convert a dc10 to an md10? If so, that seems to be a huge waste of money, especially if the main reason is to save an FE position.
That is just one of the reasons. Others to consider are extending the life of the 10s, parts commonality and availabilty, cutting training costs (common type rating). Much more than just saving on FEs. I guarantee you that the bean counters are calculating this daily, and when a suitable aircraft comes along that is cheaper and more availble than DC-10 to MD-10 conversions, you see it happen!
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Don't mean to sound negative, but in my short time here, I'm less than impressed.
Well, when you finally get on board, you can work to fix all the problems this company has to make it the company you think it should be!