Originally Posted by daOldMan

In the old days, I think that this was true. Now, it really does matter. If you want to work at AA, you have to work at one of the wholly owned. If you want to work at Delta, your chances are FAR greater if you work where there is a SSP (unless you have a masters degree and prior military time). United also seems to be really focusing on where they are hiring from.

Within a couple years, expect all of the regionals to be little more than a pipeline to a particular major.

Right now, you can get hired outside of a "flow" or preferential hiring if, and only if, you are special. If you are just another regional RJ FO that is just entering the industry, you don't stand much of a chance.