That's a good question. We haven't seen any official language on that specifically and even if there was some it could change by then. The best indicator would maybe be whatever happened when they added the one year freeze. I *think* it only effected pilots hired after that date but I'm sure someone will promptly clarify.

Its worth noting that under the current freeze (and likely any longer one, if it happens) you can still change during the freeze if a change is required to change domiciles. So if you were NYC88 and wanted SLC you could still bid one of their planes. You can also change domicile on any bid that you can hold it on the same equipment. And of course you still have access to any new category regardless of your freeze. In addition, you can still upgrade for the first time even if under a freeze, provided you can hold it. Lately its actually gone to the sub 2 year timeframe. Could it go sub one year? I'd be surprised but you never know.

So all hope is not lost if you get a crappy first assignment.