Originally Posted by Abort

AA hiring is based on the economy, which as we all know is a cycle. Once the economy turns south, the hiring will stop along with the flow through.

The gamble all new hires face is, do you think you can get hired and flow through before the economy turns? If you guess right, fantastic. If you guess wrong, you might end up stuck as an FO at step 4 pay without bonuses.

My advice would be to try to get on with a regional that offers good career advancement, but at the same time would be acceptable for the long term if needed. Also, don't underestimate quality-of-life issues.