Create your own contract?

[restart]

Hey Everybody,

I could really use some help here. I am challenged with the unique opportunity to create my own pilot contract for a small corporation (2 biz jets, int'l flying mostly in europe). I will be paving the way for up to 12 pilots to be employed by the company. Unfortunately, I am the only aviation contact they have. Where could one get some ideas on what belongs in a typical contract?

 

[ultrarunner]

Restart, are you talking about an 'employment contract'? A type of contract which covers both the employee and the employer?

Or are you talking about these so-called 'training contracts' which essentially require a minimum length of employment in return for the cost to train the pilot in a particular aircraft?

You need to be more specific.

 

[blzr]

Restart, are you talking about an 'employment contract'? A type of contract which covers both the employee and the employer?

Or are you talking about these so-called 'training contracts' which essentially require a minimum length of employment in return for the cost to train the pilot in a particular aircraft?

You need to be more specific.

If it is about a minimum length of employment for cost of training, why not turn it around a little. Basically you will agree to their terms "IF" they agree to yours. Namely, if the flight department suddenly goes away, you will be compensated for "X" period of time.

I think that would be only fair, especially in todays economic climate.

 

[restart]

Well, where do I start? I am only familiar with the airline world and contracts similar to those between airlines and pilot unions. It is my intention to come up with a contract that binds both, the pilot and the company to specific terms. The company intends to pay for types, lodging, pay during training, etc. and I wish to include all of these topics into a contract.

Since the company will have the crews based in a european city, it is important to me that the contract secures housing & pay issues and a golden parachute.

Is it even customary to have contracts like these in the corporate world or am I thinking too much like an airline pilot?

 

[restart]

Ultrarunner is right, I am not being very specific. I apologize. The company in question is just getting off the ground and plans on purchasing two jets. They have chosen me to be the first pilot and have requested help in getting the ball rolling as they have no aviation experience. If I play my cards right, I can provide a very "cushy" job for up to 12 pilots.

I'm insisting on the contract so that the pilots can feel safe leaving thier current "cushy" jobs for a position overseas.

Does that explain a little more?

 

[CitationUltra]

Ultrarunner is right, I am not being very specific. I apologize. The company in question is just getting off the ground and plans on purchasing two jets. They have chosen me to be the first pilot and have requested help in getting the ball rolling as they have no aviation experience. If I play my cards right, I can provide a very "cushy" job for up to 12 pilots.

I'm insisting on the contract so that the pilots can feel safe leaving thier current "cushy" jobs for a position overseas.

Does that explain a little more?

Given the substantial long-term potential for this contract engagement, I would recommend that you consult an attorney in your area to draw up the prototype contract. If you provide the attorney with everything you want to accomplish through the mutual agreement, i.e., rates of pay, per diem, stipulations on the types of hotels, etc., etc.--just think it through and discuss it, and you will then end up with a thorough, legally binding document.

I realize that this will cost a couple hours of time @ $200+ but it sounds like the relationship is long-term, and there is no substitute for getting it right the first time.