Originally Posted by Gunfighter

The OE release is a staffing concession we allowed the company to have. By releasing the FO, we are providing additional pilots for WS and GS flying. Releasing the FO on OE trips is a job killer. If the original FO was on the original trip, they would have to hire more to cover the schedule. The FOs who sit at home vs WS or GS are saving the company money by reducing lodging, per diem and fuel burn with a lighter airplane. Make not mistake about it, the company benefits from releasing the FO on OE trips.