Originally Posted by
flyingisok
When it comes to schedule flexibility, how do the major airlines compare to one another?
Background: I have a little bit of time left in the military and am starting to discuss future job options with my wife and kiddos.
At this point in my life, I don't have a desire to fly 900 hrs a year and spend that much time away from the family. Instead of flying 75 hrs/month all year...I'd rather fly, say, 100 hrs/month for 3 months straight, and then 20 hrs/month for 3 months straight. rinse & repeat
So, since my initial question was super vague, I guess here are my real questions.
1) Is a schedule like this even allowed? Or are there no **** minimum hour requirements each month
2) Are any of the major airlines more/less accepting of schedule creativity than others?
3) Would I ever run into any currency issues?
4) Would PBS or straight bidding make a difference?
5) Anything else I'm not factoring in?
I guess that's it. I'm aware that this might be a pretty dumb question, but I'm sure you nice folks will let me know if it is
Thanks for your time!
Hacker answered more succinctly than I will.
It is very unlikely you will fly 900 hours a year, actual block. I might be overly literal though.
Speaking for Delta
1. Yes, may or may not be possible. You cannot bid a 20 hour month, but if manning is good you can drop to zero if desired. Will manning be good? Maybe. Pretty outside your control
2. ?
3. Not necessarily your problem. Though I was all about keeping my head down on probation
4. PBS has been very good to me. I have been able to get every kid and spouse birthday off so far. Even as a very jr guy, PBS allowed me to get a key weekend off for a birthday.
5. Overall the solution you are seeking is seniority. Get a job. Get to a Jr jet. Stay with it and build seniority. Seniority=choice.
For reference, a full month for me as a narrow body guy is 4 4 day trips. I live in base, so that's 3 nights away per trip. 12 nights a month. Not as hard for the family as we all thought it would be