December rosters are on their way, and with them the busiest swap season of the year. Everybody wants the same few days, so a little planning goes a long way. Here's how to give yourself the best chance.
1. Move on release day
The best swaps go in the first day or two after rosters come out. Have a proper look the evening they land, and know before then which days you'd most like to change.
2. Offer something back
A request with a duty to give in return is far more likely to be accepted than a straight pick-up. Think about which of your own trips someone else might want: a good layover or a well-timed day trip can be worth a lot in December.
3. Be flexible on the details
A late for an early, a layover for two day trips, a different day either side of the one you want: the more options you're open to, the more swaps will work. Christmas Eve might be impossible; the 23rd might not be.
4. Check it fits before you ask
Nothing wastes a colleague's goodwill like agreeing a swap that then clashes with your rest or your next duty. Check your days either side, and remember the flight time limits apply to the swapped duty too.
5. Get it to Crewing early
An agreed swap only counts once Crewing has approved it, and they're busy in December too. Submit it as soon as you've agreed.
Where DutyFlip helps
DutyFlip does the checking for you. Offer a trip in two taps, see every swap at your base marked by whether it fits your roster, and if something clashes, see why and which of your duties you could offer back to make it work. It's free to use.
Get early access to DutyFlip.
Have a good Christmas, wherever the roster sends you.
