Originally Posted by
KYflyguy
I've got a crj class coming up in 2 wks, but after reading these forums I'm unsure of what I should do. I interviewed in August and xj was the 4th offer I've gotten so far. Others were psa, mesa, and republic (shuttle America side). I in no way shape form or fashion have sjs. I only want to get my time and get out to the majors where I will worry about how big the jet is. I'm 25 with a bachelors and ATP so I feel like I've set myself up well. Here's the kicker though, I will be commuting from knoxville (KTYS) so many will probably say PSA because of living in base. But that new ta, if it passes, will make commuting worth it from anywhere. Also, as crappy as the mesa pay rates are, it looks like they have some serious growth and looking pretty stable vs xjets 200's uncertainty. I guess what I'm saying is I need some reassurance that xjet is the best option for me. Thanks guys.
IMO, the unprecedented stagnation that occurred in the airline industry due to the Age 65 rule won't ever happen again unless there is a complete collapse of the US economy in which the airline industry will be the least of our concern.
Due to recent trends in the industry, I wouldn't recommend XJT if you're looking to get in and out quickly as possible. A new hire today a XJT will likely have a 5-6 year upgrade at best. Too many senior pilots, too many 50 seaters, and a ton of uncertainty.
I recommend going to a regional that has little to no exposure to 50 seat market and is growing. Any pilot furloughed 3 years ago at ASA that went to GoJet is a lineholding Captain on the CRJ700 holding weekends off making 70k. Furloughed pilots that returned to ASA are currently barely line holding FOs on the CRJ700 flying weekends for 45k if you work hard.
Mesa is a great choice. Likely 2 year or less upgrade. Compass also