Originally Posted by
Laker24
Even if they offered a 30k signing bonus pilots would still leave for the big leagues at the first opportunity. I'm sure the regionals are aware of that fact. Dramatically increasing your costs to try to stave off future attrition probably isn't a good plan. Long term the regionals are screwed unless something changes. Good riddance in my opinion. Hopefully the Legacies decide to bring the majority of the flying in house.
Good post. I think this is the answer. Would I go to a regional knowing if I spent my life there, I might top out around $100K/year? No way.
But I would go to a major, fly the exact same equipment and make $50,000 first year, knowing that there is upward mobility within the seniority list and knowing that the promise of someday making $300K is within reach.
All those ERJs and CRJs need to be absorbed by mainline carriers and they can adjust the pay rates accordingly. Let pilots build hours as CFIs and/or working Part 135/91 and when they meet ATP mins, they can apply (and be hired by) the majors.