Originally Posted by
A321
AA and US are currently discussing which jumpseat program should be adopted going forward.
-US uses a reservation based system which allows a pilot to reserve a jumpseat a week ahead of time, thus decreasing stress and making commutes more efficient.
-AA uses a seniority system which allows a senior pilot to bump a junior pilot off the jumpseat up to 15 minutes prior, thus making commuting more stressful, unpredictable and therefore making getting to work more difficult than it needs to be. It benefits only the #1 pilot on the list and 14,999 others have the uncertainly of being bumped during their commute.
My question is this.... which system does Delta and United use? If you could briefly explain how it works, that would be excellent, as well as any pros and cons you see.
Thanks in advance.
Like Scoop said DL uses a reservation system. If its open and you book it, its yours. I've "lost out" to junior pilots from time to time, but prefer it over a rediculous seniority based system with a 15 minute bump ability. Even if you adopt a strict seniority system, the cutoff needs to be much longer. At least an hour or two if you can negotiate it.
The reservation system is fair, transparent and helps all pilots plan their commutes and travel plans much better.