Originally Posted by
WhiskeyDelta
Hugely mistaken concept about APDs. They are not mandatory blackout dates. The PWA simply says the company can deny an APD regardless of reserve coverage; not that that it will be denied automatically.
I successfully used mine for a Dec 25-26 trip last year. It processed and was approved during the first PCS run for that month.
Also of note, APDs are processed before regular PDs.
All true, except not sure APD's are allowed on holidays. It's in the PWA and I think the super bowl is even listed as a holiday. Also keep in mind APD and PD on a holiday the day before and after are a 1.5 times factor. All other days are 1.0. So if coverage is short -10, it's -10X1.5= -15
If one can't hold it off, try to bid a trip someone would want. Like a warm destination layover and then put it on the swap board.
Another trick. If you're working Christmas, most likely you have days off earlier in the month. Put in a swap with the pot "wild card". If you have a 3 day trip over Christmas and there's a 5 day trip earlier in the month, the math may be such the computer will grant it.
Another approach if you don't get what you want is to drop a trip earlier in the month. After you drop it or give it away, try to swap with the pot wild card with your Christmas trip. Years ago I used to drop a trip which then would give me more flexibility to move things around. You need to learn how PD and APD work in the computer and then play the math.
The above is what to try if you don't get your bid choice.
Hope this helps.