Originally Posted by
gloopy
I can't think of a base in the system that hasn't seen new pilots displaced out of at some point in the last 2 rounds of hiring. While its great to simply say "move to base" there is something to be said for being mobile and, while inheriting a commute, keping the family grounded and stable until you get some seniority and get a chance to figure things out. It also lets you make quick moves on any AE you want for pay/QOL without having to face another move.
Living in base is nice, but not all commutes are bad. Some people act like a 3-4 hour drive in "local" traffic is superior to half hourly flights. I think that's pushing the limits of the live in base propaganda. And not everyone can move. Fewer still can/will move to NYC or anywhere near. I'd consider moving right away if you faced a really tough particular commute. But for most its very, very doable. At least until you get some seniority and figure things out. When you're uber junior there isn't a seat in the system that will guarantee you won't get displaced. Going through a move just to end up commuting anyway is a pretty steep price for imagined stability.
Over half the pilots commute. Its very manageable, and far from the recreational choice some make it out to be, is in many cases a reality of the profession and industry.
Agreed - I decided to stay in Las Vegas after being hired by Delta and it turned out to be a great decision after the great 9/11 furlough. I had contacts and was able to find a job quickly after being laid off. My commute to LAX is now a 45 minute flight with flights every 1/2 hour each way throughout the day and we are starting to get mainline service back to book the jumpseat. The 73 out of LAX has a lot of red eyes so the trips aren't the greatest BUT I could not afford to live in LA and cost of living in LAS is quite reasonable with no income tax and low property taxes. My commuting time is very often less than the driving time for LAX based pilots. Would love to live in base but not willing to deal with the WX in SLC and not willing to move back east. Nothing beats living in base if you are happy there but it is not the be all and end all of airline life. Also, kids are grown so don't have to worry about the schools.