Originally Posted by
AV810
[No one wants to pay back 57k if they decide they want to leave, or heaven forbid wash out in training.]
This is a very valid point. What is termed a "hiring bonus" is actually an indenture. Can you imagine if every employer called half your salary a "bonus," and you had to pay it back if you didn't continue to work for a specified time? If it was truly a bonus, then $35,000/yr must be a living wage. Is anyone living 20 days a month on the road (and possibly also commuting another 10 days) for $35,000/yr? If you count all the hours away from home, that's less than $5.00/hr. I wonder why there's a pilot shortage?
If you wash out you only pay back 5K. Nothing more because you don’t see anymore until after you pass IOE. I agree with your point but there is a big difference from 5K and 56K.
Also you could defer that 5K until after as an option.
Finally if you think you are going to leave in under 2 years (IE Mitary) defer the whole thing and get paid 12 monthly installments in year 2 as it vests if you are still here.
Look bonus should 100% be made into hourly rates like Endeavor but to say you pay it all back if you wash out or leave is not completely accurate.