Originally Posted by
bigboeings
Thanks for the input guys. Wondering how reserve works? What is the call out time. I can drive to EWR in 3 hrs, so I don't mind being on reserve forever as long as I don't have to hang at the airport. I realize there are lots of variables to individuals defined QOL. Just trying to get.as much info ahead of time.
20-A-4-a A Reserve in a Short Call window or a Lineholder in a telephone availability window must be able to report for duty (call-out time) no more than two hours and thirty minutes (2:30) after the Company’s initial attempt at contact.
Consideration shall be given to heavy traffic, construction, and similar circumstances.
The last sentence is the lynchpin here. While it has been many years since I was on reserve, I NEVER told the crew desk that I'd be there at a specific time. The only phrase you need to utter is "I'll do the best I can" or "I'll be there as soon as possible". The crew desk might try to pigeonhole you into committing to a time. Don't do it. Just repeat the above quotes and you will be fine.