If a pilot leaves Silver for what you call "better options" why don't you explore those airlines as well? Your experience will make you a shoe in at any of them. You won't be upgrading in 1.5 yrs most likely and 2nd yr pay isn't stellar. Plan on 2k a month take home on 2nd yr that's what I averaged without paying into their health insurance or 401k. The only reason you'd go to Silver is if you live in one of the Saab bases.