Geez... I leave this thread for just a few days and it gets all heated! Airsupport cleared up the air on the contract and ASA. The mins are low, just like everywhere else. This is not a new event. The contract issue is still here and will be until mgmt sees it in THEIR best interests to get something accomplished. My hope and estimate is by Feb 08- I think the DAL flying starting in Dec will force mgmt to come to the table and play ball. The entire pilot group (including myself) has frustrations- mainly over the contract issues and flying more than we all would like. I love to fly but 95+ block hours a month is getting a bit old. This "pref-bid" PNCL now uses makes us really efficient to the company, but not efficient in our own personal lives. I have now dwindled down to NO weekends off and only 11 days off! I was holding at least half the weekends, 2-day trips, and more days off. If you want the fast upgrade and a bunch of hours in a hurry with a great group of guys then this is a great place. A career regional- FORGET IT! The contract Will come- its inevitable, but when/what is still up for debate. The pilot group is united, angered, and ready for some job action. The mins are low because its an entry level job- accept that. Majors, fractionals, corporate/charter gigs, and the cargo operators keep hiring our CA's and in some cases our FO's. New hire classes are still going on and the 250 or sub 500 pilot is not the norm, just as the 2500TT/25 year old NH at a major is not the norm- but it happens. If you don't like it then don't apply, don't jumpseat on 9E, and don't buy a ticket on a "airlink" operated flight. There is always a solution to a problem, but complaining and trash talk gets nothing but more problems... Let me know a solution besides a contract and I will "pass it on".