Originally Posted by Beechlover

Not saying this is the ONLY path to the majors but 'for me' this worked. I went from flight instructing to a regional as a CRJ FO then E-190/170 all right seat time. Spent 5 yrs there when I was hired by JetBlue. It can happen. But there is absolutely more than one way to do this.

Some things to consider that you've heard/read before..

- What conditions can you live with for several years?
-- Commute or not? May not have a choice so you might want to research where their most junior bases are, and how many/frequent flights there are from where you live when you do have to commute.
-- first year pay and can you live on it where you intend to live?
-- Reserve... How long is it? Who's is shorter can be Huge when trying to have a life aside from the job. ESPECIALLY if you commute.

Upgrade time, me personally.., Its not my biggest concern for being marketable. Although it depends on who your ideal career airline/flying job is. A degree might also be a good investment as well, but I have flown with several captains at my previous carrier that did not have one.

All in all, your getting into this career pretty young and at a good time. You have options, but I would definitely consider (with whatever path you choose). Getting your degree. if you spend enough time at either place, TPIC will come. But odds are, you'll find opportunities to move on BEFORE you upgrade and the degree will fill the "4yr Degree Required" Square. The degree WILL allow you to apply vs TPIC and no degree. If you look at places like United, JetBlue, Virgin, Spirit etc. maybe even US Air. The Turbine PIC requirement isn't there. They DO seem to place ALOT of weight in "multi pilot crew" operations though emphasis on you being able to function as part of a crew.

Again.., not the ONLY PATH but one that worked for me. So Im sure there are others here who can speak to their personal experiences.
Best of luck!