Originally Posted by
HSLD
Good post!
Work rules are the one intangible that individual pilots, and even pilots as a group, have a very difficult time placing a value on. Ask a United (DAL, NWA) Pilot how important duty rigs are these days
Rate of pay clearly has an impact on an individual pilot's W2 earnings, although work rules will allow him to have the time off to enjoy a reasonable quality of life.
Back on track...
QOL of key. We are in negotiations now, and the D.O. and CEO say they want to improve our W-2. GREAT!!! HOWEVER, they want PBS, back to 50% Dead Head, no MIN days off between Pairing blocks, the list goes on. Sure they might pay more, but you won't have time to spend that extra money, or time with loved ones. And that's, well, "Priceless".
BTW, check with your tax man about per diem. As far as I know, if you "overnight", it's not taxable. If you are doing "turns" it is!!!