Originally Posted by
LoudFastRules
It's time to finally get the universally crap-@ss first year FO pay up to AT LEAST the $30/hr range. While I doubt that anyone can achieve that YET, I think it would be great if you could at least break the $25/hr barrier for first year FO's. So far, I believe only Horizon is up there, and they've been there for years.
If you guys could get up around $27-$30 for first year FO's, you would not lack for applications and would finally be able to staff up.
This is a new era for regional pilots. Managements are struggling, and it's time to drag the pay up kicking and screaming the whole way.
Just the fact that decent FO rates, including first year pay, seem unrealistic reminds me of how far this whole industry has sunk.
Please also keep in mind that beating that first year FO pay is tremendously important to every other pilot group in our country. With staffing as competitive as it is, other management teams would be forced to respond if one actively recruiting company actually starts paying their first year FO's above poverty wages. (Yes, I am aware that Mesaba's FO pay scale is equally shameful and pathetic.)
Good luck guys. We are all with you on this.
There is no way that you could ever expect $30/hr first year as a regional FO. You have no experience in the field, and a number of legacy carriers pay that or just above it there first year. According to the pay scales on this website, Delta is the only carrier that pays above $40/hr first year. Who wouldn't want $30, but you have to be realistic. You come from flying a 172 or small twin and expect $30 first year. And now alot of new hires were never instructors, they come from bridge programs where they have always been a student. I believe with Pinnacle, the argument isn't with 1st year pay, it is with the subsequent years. I am fine with making $21 first year. It is your probationary year and first with a 121 carrier. Second year pay at Pinnacle is what I have a problem with.