Originally Posted by
Palmtree Pilot
Why do people keep saying this when it is not true? It is totally possible to commute for your entire career if you want. In fact, it would probably make more sense to commute the first couple of years because of the low starting pay, the high cost of living and the high cost of moving to the Islands from the mainland. With PBS you can ask for block days off or give up a few days off to have a line built for you.
I never thought about the travel or hotel when I applied to Hawaiian; I have a good friend there and knew he was very happy and that was enough for me.
To all who apply: we use pref bidding; junior pilots will NOT find their schedule easly commutable! If you're assigned the 717 it would be nearly impossible. If you're on a widebody, it will be difficult at best. Please don't listen to people who don't know what they're talking about. You won't be happy with your lifestyle when you find commuting is not really plausable. Don't make career decisions based on misinformation!
You may be able to live in a crash pad for a few years, and IF the company grows and your seniority position improves, ultimately you might have other alternatives. But you would be making a mistake to think that you'll be happy commuting with a junior schedule in your first few years.
Bottom line: if Hawaiian represents the right opportunity for you, plan to move to Hawaii...enjoy the islands and their special culture! Grow personally and professionally....the rest will follow!