Unfortunately, I think that we have seen the last of any substantial growth in the mainline domestic market. There will be new aircraft purchased, but purchased as replacement aircraft only. I have spoken to a few of my fathers college buddies - whom are all at Delta, American, USAirways, etc and they agree. There is going to be a huge amount of retirements in the coming years, but minimal hiring. They all agree, that with the huge pay and seniority increase they will get from 65 y/o captains retiring, plus pre 9/11 contracts and pay rates, the domestic market will be given away almost completely. I often hear mainline pilot saying that they will reclaim scope on the next contract, but pilots, like the rest of us, vote with their pocketbooks, and will not vote down down double digit percent hourly increases on top of almost immediate type and seat upgrades.

As much as I hate to say it, even mainline's new 787/A350 type aircraft are 'international rj's.' These aircraft are designed for long, thin, point to point flights, (much like the 170's and CRJ-7/900's). The 747's flying from their US hub to their Asian / European Hub's are a thing of the past.

I hope you like chinese food, or sand, because that is where you will have to move to get to fly big shiny jets, and get paid big bucks!

Cheers!