It's GREAT news that Mesa is now at 18 mos for an upgrade. This is the first sign of future times. The Regionals will revert back to what they once were: a stepping stone & not a career. The previous decade of stagnation has severely retarded the career progression of the vast majority of Regional pilots. Cracks me up when I hear 12-14yr FOs at mainline complaining about how screwed they got by being stuck in the right seat so long.....at least they were an FO at a MAJOR for the lost decade!

Even with another recession and weakened economy, there will be enough Major & LCC jobs for EVERYONE currently at a Regional. Sure a few Regional FO's are being hired but the vast majority will have TPIC. He who has the quickest upgrade wins. Anyone who sits back with their career on autopilot will not progress as fast. Within 3-5 years we'll be back to direct entry Captains at many Regionals. Get in, get your pic & get out. If your a 4-5 year FO now and looking at another 3-4 years to upgrade you'd be foolish NOT to consider looking for an upgrade elsewhere. I was hired at 9E with 472 hours, I left thee for a direct entry Captain job at 1700 hours and hired at DAL with 2600 hours. MANY of my classmates at 9E who dissed me for my strategic career planning are STILL STUCK THERE!