Originally Posted by
FrankCobretti
Question: I'm considering a move to the San Diego area, but I'm just a few numbers too junior to hold LAX. My TravelNet research is telling me that it's actually easier to commute to DTW than SLC, which will be important to a guy standing reserve in either base.
That said, am I missing something? In the experience of those of you who have actually done it, is it easier to commute to DTW than SLC out of the So Cal airports?
Yes, you appear to be missing something. You don't appear to be factoring in the flight time. SLC - SAN on the Jump-seat is not that bad at about 1 1/2 hours block. SAN- DTW can be 4 plus hours, sometimes on the 737 jumpseat-ouchh!!!
Although you can sometimes get a seat, it would be prudent to plan on riding up front the majority of the time. I did SAN to SLC from 2005-2007 when it was mostly RJs and it wasn't too bad back then. Now there is a lot more mainline service, ie, booked J/S. Southwest is also an option - although you will go through LAS or PHX.
Another plus for SLC is that you have the option of SNA - not so with DTW.
I have commuted SAN to ATL which is similar in block to DTW, and probably easier due to more flights, and SOCAL to SLC. I personally think you would be making a big, big, mistake by trying to commute from SAN to DTW vice SAN to SLC. Either way you should be back in LAX pretty quickly.
PM me if you have any specific questions.
Scoop