Originally Posted by
Tinpusher007
RJ85FO, if one wanted to do that, any guess on how long? I personally would probably take the SAAB as its not my goal to be a lifer at a regional airline. But I do agree the transition from F/O to capt would probably be easier in the same equipment.
For a junior guy...long. Remember the jets are senior equipment, so FO's more senior to yourself will be the likely ones holding out for the Captain's seat, especially since we are still in the 24 month seat lock after upgrade situation.
There seems to be a sense of comfort returning to Mesaba which will slow the attrition of the top 300 pilots since they will be flying back at close to their comfortable pay range. If you are a CRJ FO just coming on the property, holding out for CRJ Captain, you will be waiting for years not months. I strongly recommend taking the first available upgrade. Don't get caught with your pants down and no PIC time if things go crazy with a merger at NWA, some integration between Compass and Mesaba etc.