Instruction day
Today was an instruction day! I had the pleasure teaching 4 new hires our CRM-system during the whole day. These pilots have already achieved a lot of flying experience in other companies. 3 out of 4 had been employed by both Ryanair and Norwegian, before switching to SAS. One had experience from over 10 companies spread all over the world. All four will end up as First Officers (FO) on SAS Bombardier CRJ 900. Two pilots and two Cabin Crew members operates these slender aircrafts on less intense routes. From what I’ve heard, the spirit and nice atmosphere among the crew is exceptional. A small crew like that really get to know each other during stop overs – and as a bonus: right now they have some very attractive destinations to spend som time in! Good for them!
New rules
Concerning hiring new pilots, I’m so happy to see that people elect SAS as an employer, not so much for the salary(according to a recent benchmarking study, you life salary and retirement plans are actually better in some of our nearby competitors), but for security and the human centered approach to safety etc. In addition, the policy moving people around on regular basis to different crew bases in various countries, hiring on short-term contracts and putting pressure on pilots in different ways (calling in sick without your own replacement isn’t popular, losing sectors and payment due to a diversion or ending up in red capitals on a list at the crew base as one of the 20% adding some safety fuel) isn’t a successful way to keep pilots within the company. However, more and more operators requires you to pay for your type rating via deduction of your salary, resulting in pilots being committed a company for many years to come. It’s nice and cost-effective to have people stay for longer periods in any company – if only the reasons are right!
Welcome onboard
Anyhow, I’m happy to greet my new colleagues and I’m hoping to see more of them in the future. We talked a lot about safety and the importance of setting bottom lines today, learning from others mistakes and being encouraged to report yourself when things don’t go as planned. The just culture, trust and a non punitive reporting system makes it possible to keep a learning organization in shape! And your employees…These guys are just “The Right Stuff”! Welcome onboard!
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