Originally Posted by
oldveedubs
I'd like to see merit incorporated a little more into the current system. Currently a less than average CA can get an upgrade before you because he was hired a year earlier. Every other notable profession is based on merit...plus it will make pilots strive to be the best. I agree with most of what has been said but I'd to see a little more merit integrated with seniority. And as far as I'm concerned...being at a company longer is not merit...its seniority.
The merit is...........you got your ratings and met the minimum qualifications and you passed all the HR and hiring BS and got the Job. Remember, most Real Airlines Hire future Capts not future FO's.
The 2nd merit is ..........you passed your FO training and checkride and IOE in other words you didn't kill anyone along the way.
The 3rd merit is you continued to fly safely for a few years and have an equal number of Take-offs and landings. ATTA boy!
The 4th merit is You now have the seniority to hold a Capt position. As a very seasoned Airline Capt previously said (Fireman), you still must pass the Class 1 Medical and you must pass the FAA oral and the FAA Type Ride. In other words everyone must meet a Minimum standard. And you must continue to do so every 6 months. That is merit enough in my book.
Under the seniority system you don't have to worry about the Chief Pilot's Son or Daughter.........or the CEO's ....... ahem......"Niece" getting that CAPT slot before you........