Originally Posted by
Thunder1
Albie,
I am a United furloughee from 2008 and a current Southwest 7 year F/O and here is my advice for your friend:
1) Always drive to work vs commute if at all possible
2) Keep your first wife if at all possible
3) Nothing is certain in this industry. Don't believe the quick upgrades at United or the oft repeated they have a ton of retirements so you're golden, etc. My sim partner at United in 2008 was a 16 year 75/76 FO and finally took the A320 Upgrade. I was furloughed 5 months after completing training and within 9 months he was bumped from his Capt seat and downgraded back to 75.76 FO. Things can change in a hurry. Instead, look at the history of the company, the culture, their financials and their leadership team.
So, what am I saying....given the information you have provided it is a no brainer. Southwest all the way!
Best wishes.
P.S. -- pass this along as one data point for him as a guy living in domicile. 2017, 6 yr. F/O pay total compensation 285K and I worked less days than the average line holding narrow body United pilot. Caveat -- when I am at work -- we work -- very productive, but tiring trips for the most part. But stats don't lie -- less days at work for more pay.
My advice was based on driving and stability. UAL is buying a turnaround stock...payoff may be high, but...has a tad more risk if history is a guide. SWA is a dividend stock...dont' expect rapid growth, or flash, but you will get paid.
If this guy had a Reserve gig or wife had good prospects in a United town, I would have told him to base his choice on what he wanted to do 10 years from now and hope for the best. But--they are anchored--and that makes SWA a (as others pointed out) damn good job better than 95% of world has, and a great way to make a living.
Regardless of where you live/fly, I think having a diversified source of both money and joy is important. ANG, side gig, spouse job...all play into the mix. Strap on to just your airline job for your finances or your happiness, and you'll ride a few cycles up and down....
Thanks for the input--generally a pretty good discussion.