Originally Posted by therapysession

I've flown with numerous First Officers that check every box on an application. They've attended numerous job fairs, update airline apps twice a month, and are great to fly with. None can seem to get the call.

I don't think it's so much an issue of why aren't people leaving, it's why haven't they gotten the call. For one Delta stopped hiring over the summer. Two, United hasn't really started hiring a whole lot, albeit a few classes and a large pool. Third, AA is mostly flows. Fourth, SWA from what I hear is extremely fat on pilots although they are still hiring. Work culture there is great, but you'll be an FO on the guppy for a long time. Not to mention if you've been here more than 3 years AND we get a new contract soon (which we will), you'll come out ahead financially if you stay. As for the rest of the carriers anybody here longer than 2 years would be foolish to jump ship due to golden handcuffs, minimal pay diff vs QOL, again if we get a new contract.

I know people are going to start harping, "It is going to be at least another year rapey!" Anybody who judges a 30+ year career on something that may or may not happen within a year is a moron. Ask any senior Capt at any airline and they will tell you the same thing. "Once you get hired, never leave, because the airline you're at now isn't going to be the same one you retire at."

With that being said, if you can get a call from the legacies, please at least interview. It would be a great opportunity.

Flame away.