Originally Posted by notahobby7

as i new guy, i welcome everyone's perspective. As far as the maintenance thing, that is inexcusable. The same issue was rampant at my previous employer. On one hand, i had a previous captain leave me a paper note about a bleed valve that failed closed multiple times in flight, no write up. I ended up writing it up of course after arguing with maintenance, and sure enough did the same thing in flight and we diverted. On the flip side, some captains would write up placards at outstations. When there is a potential write up for the aircraft, the previous crew should write it up, unless there is a verbal exchange and agreement between the two captains, very busch league, unprofessional in my opinion. Now, if it is an item that is cosmetic such as cabin trim...

In terms of spirit, the training was great (every single instructor sincerely cared for my success and learning), the airplane is easy (not that i have even come close to mastering it or ever will, and still am and will always be learning), all the crews have been excellent (with the exception of one senior fll captain), the contract has some great caveats, and i strongly believe in the business model.

However, as a 34 year old with this being my only income, who will probably be commuting regardless of where i work, i am having a hard time not looking to at least apply for legacy jobs. It is hard to ignore that i can make much more money without ever having to upgrade. Trip averaging is not so good, we need true trip/duty rigs and premium pay for late-night flying. Also, our retirement can't compare to a 15% contribution at aa for example, that is not a match, but a contribution (i could be mistaken). First year pay, c'mon, this is a career airline right? I fully respect those who went before me here, and am proud to be associated with those who held the line, but because you and i had it substandard, does't justify having those behind us suffer. There are no shortage of applicants now, but it could definitely happen here someday.

I have high hopes for this company, and am proud and fortunate to work here, and am doing my best to improve the brand, but am fearful if i am still here in three years, i'll be a mid-level f.o. Watching us go through a protracted contract battle with no end in sight, as my friends at legacies make twice as much with equivalent schedules.

Yes, let then "don't let the door hit you on the way out", "get the hell out then", "i bet you're a joy to fly with", comments fly.

I just want to make the best career choice and am worried the next contract will take awhile, as we have plenty of senior guys who seem to be content, and management has little incentive to expedite giving their low-paid pilots raises.