Originally Posted by
Viperstick
Looking for some feedback from folks who've been there, done that. I just retired from the USAF & was fortunate enough to be hired by United last fall. We've decided to move closer to family, but haven't settled on a location yet.
All through training, I heard "live in your domicile" and while that would greatly simplify life, none of the domiciles jazz me or my wife for the long term. We both like the Nashville area, but everything is RJ out of there.
Currently reserve on the Bus in EWR, but considering a lateral to IAH or maybe ORD in the fall. Here are some random thoughts I've had on the subject of commuting vs. living in domicile:
- Will the SkyWest purchase of larger RJs make commuting easier (i.e. less chances of being weight restricted)?
- Commuting while on reserve definitely blows, but once I'm a line holder & can trade/drop for QOL, will that make commuting less odious?
- If SWA opens a domicile in BNA (I just heard rumors), will that make getting in and out of BNA easier or harder?
- I've heard the percentage of guys living in domicile vs. commuting is 40/60--true? For those who commute, why do you choose not to live in your domicile?
- For those who commute on RJs, what other pitfalls are there? I know SkyWest pilots get first crack at the jumpseats, but what else?
Appreciate the feedback.
Love Nashville! Have family there and from the times I have non-revved/JS out there, I can tell you that sometimes it ain't easy.
One thing to think about
: I know the XJT ERJs aren't as sexy as a CRJ700 or 170 and aren't mainline either. But the XJT ERJs are the only RJ out there with TWO jumpseats. Can't even say that of the 737s or most 757s.
As far as weight restrictions: they do happen but are most definitely not the norm. Most guys here are pretty smart and can figure out a way to get 50 pax, their bags and two jumpseaters wherever we are going. The only time you really get hosed is when dispatch loads us up with gas for a distant alternate or a lot of holding.
As a former Norcal to IAH and IAH to ORD commuter, I second what other guys say about it being a whole 'nother job when you live in base. Good luck with commuting!