Originally Posted by
GoCats67
Dead on.
I think you will also see that process expedited as other domiciles open up with more 737 CAP bids. If you look at ORD it is going super senior, but already on this snapshot you see 3 guys taking laterals from EWR to ORD.
So, since EWR is the only place people down in the 5000s (and low 6000s) seniority range can hold on this bid, they take the bid and figure they will get the pay, hold a line in EWR and then lateral when the opportunity comes.
Obviously, this is not the case for all of the folks, but I think as other options become available in ORD, DEN, and especially DCA (if that opens), you will see a good percentage of folks lateral out of EWR and others will continue come in. Hopefully this can all happen quickly, but either way I think that you are right that EWR is going to continue to be the most junior CAP base.
I think it also has to do with the lack of progression and actual regression that occurred during the 2000's on the UAL side. I don't blame guys for being anxious to see the left seat as it's been a long time coming. I tried it for just over two years and have been on the 777 ever since. After PBS, the schedules were just too hard to manage unless your over 40% in base. Summer staffing has always sucked. To me the small increase in pay (post taxes) isn't worth it. But everyone's situation is different.