I just noticed that RJ85FO answered. Mine becomes ( as the doctor says) a second opinion.

RJ85FO is much more qualified to answer than I am.

My advice - think long term. Mesaba is ON THE WAY UP. Morale is good, exciting things are happening. The contract issues are settled. Expansion (Hiring) will be explosive. I've made predictions on other posts that I stick with - they will be getting more then the 36 CRJ900s on order (perhaps more then the two 500s they had) and possibly ERJs (Compass). Running three airlines (Mesaba / Compass /NWA) requires tooo much top heavy management $$$$$$. Todays economy demands efficiency in order to profit.

As Mesaba and Compass becomes "blended with NWA" the lines will blur as will the terms major / regional. A pilot shortage will require companies like NWA to "bank" groups of pilots and institute flow through.

Being among the first 50-100 Mesaba new hires will give you a seniority number in the high 500s or low 600s with the eventual total at 900+. I think more if they get additional CRJs or the ERJs. Lets assume they do and have 1200-1400 pilots in two years. With industry dynamics, Mesaba Captains will be moving to NWA or other majors; the opportunities to upgrade will be great.

My advice - if you want a career go to Mesaba NOW and take whatever airplane you get. With all your jet time, I would say a CRJ would be the logical place to put you. If you want to play "bionic ping ball ball in a box" (all energy and no direction) bouncing from one flying job to another, it's hard to establish a flying career.