Originally Posted by
271c
FO here. I make 60k+, without much effort (i.e. I don't pick up very much open time, if any). I'm not underpaid. If I'm a Captain making 80k, I also will not be underpaid. The market seems to agree.
The mechanic fixing our engines is responsible for the lives on the plane. A lot of them don't make 100k... A nurse is responsible for many lives each shift. And let's be real, many new-ish nurses are in the 50k-60k range -- I earn more than my nurse friends/spouse.
A bus driver crashes, kills 35 kids. Makes maybe 20k. Lot of lives in his hands there... (yes, little technical skill/knowledge required thus the 20k salary, but the "lives in the hands" argument pertains)
Airline pilots DO require technical knowledge, I agree. But said knowledge can be obtained in a year; no college required. That's a fact. Sure, nowadays we need to flight instruct, etc. for an extra year or two, but the base knowledge acquisition can take place in a 180 day + 90 day program at ATP flight school.
I wish I made more, believe me. And I will fight for any compensation and QOL improvements for the WHOLE group when the chances come up in a union vote. But I also am aware that I make more than the average US resident by a large amount. I have no odd illusions about demanding minimum 100k compensation my first year as a Captain of a regional jet. Besides, with a bit of OT pick up I might get pretty close anyway...
You're comparing a bus driver to an airline pilot? Didn't know dealers were selling their school buses for $40 million each...
Nursing is a fine profession, and they are responsible for maybe a handful of people each day. We are responsible for hundreds. Can you say "liability"?
Yes commercial pilot technical knowledge can be learned relatively quickly, but how much does it cost??? I would argue it costs even more at a cookie cutter like ATP with their jacked-up prices.
You make $60k+? Try saying that again without using overtime and bonuses to inflate your yearly salary. You shouldn't have to spend even more time away from home to make a decent salary. Plus you aren't always able to pick up overtime (ask how I know) and bonuses aren't guaranteed. What is your longevity and hourly rate? (Hourly Rate x 75 x 12 = Salary)