IMO, the outstation bases really aren't that bad. I can't speak for the forthcoming southern bases, but the PA and WV bases are relatively cheap, for $200-300 a month, you get your own room. Gas is pretty cheap in these towns ($.40 cheaper per gallon than at home for me). Yes, commuting is a hassle, but its not impossible. I wake up at 530, catch a 40 minute flight to CLE, then a 60 minute flight to LGA, and im home by 930. Others dont have it so easy... The company says that it doesn't save them much money to have a base at the hub, because of overnights and whatnot. Obviously bases at IAD and ATL would also give us more per diem. And it sure would be a lot more convenient for the pilots for commuting. I mean, a pilots QOL is the upmost important factor to airlines, right? *rolls eyes*