Originally Posted by
Glenntilton
UA is seniority. BUt it is up to the Captain, and the Captain could say it is too close to departure to kick the junior guy off. Or the other jumps seater is a Scab, etc. we had a Senior guy on my commute that would never list and sometimes show up last minute, glad he retired. If he would have at least listed, other pilots could look into other airlines to ride on before it is too late.
This is exactly why, IMO, the reservation system is better. By making everyone list and leveling the playing field you help take some of the guess work put of getting to/from work. If I go to list and the jumps eat is already booked and the flight is full, I can plan on another option rather than having to scramble across the airport when some senior a-hole decides to mosey up to the gate 15 mins before departure.
In addition, can you imagine being a junior guy trying to commute out of a senior city?! You'd never know until 15 prior if you're getting to work/home. Sounds like a nightmare to me.