Originally Posted by
orvil
The low first year pay is a hidden training bond. We just don't call it that. Look around in the contract world. They require a training bond for a period of time or you have to pay it back if you leave early. In the US, we call it new hire pay.
We should recognize it for what it is, a training fee.
Market forces, not TA concessions, should drive up first year probation pay and benefits.
I remember being paid $1800 a month, paid for my own hotel during training (the famous "Roachcrest" apts) and being on "B" scale for the first few years. Started as 727 SO, for over two years... then furloughed.
So, no, new hires today don't have it so bad.