I see the seat locks being held for two years probably three. Word is that new hire classes are full, so why would the company pay for more types than they have to per pilot? This last Spring a couple lucky guys and girls switched. This was because there was an overage on the MD-80 and a shortage on the other aircraft, AND there weren't any new hire classes going on at the time! So again, for a company that's hell bent on being cheap as possible on virtually everything, I fail to see them releasing any locks they don't have too.

The ONLY exception is if they switch aircraft in your base. Example, some new hires hired last Fall into Florida bases are now switching PGD to the AB (and previously in FLL). BUT don't count on that either since we don't have a contract anymore they could throw that out also if they wanted too.

Also, the exact date the seat lock expires has been debated and moved by the company as well. First, I thought the 2 (or 3) year clock started at DOH, then I heard the date you pass your checkride? Now I'm hearing the anniversary date that you finish IOE?

So, in theory if it takes you 4 months (which is quick for G4) to get through GS, sim, checkride, and IOE it could be up to 40 months before you can switch aircraft. Assuming there is a vacancy of course. Be flexible!