Originally Posted by
But seriously
This is a complicated way to get to just allowing us to A1D to work. We already have the ability in DECS (new since your time). If they just made it legal to A1D yourself to your base on DAY 1, it would have the same effect and be WAY less complicated.
I don’t think anyone actually believes the company would agree to this. Not that it’s a bad idea.
An A1d is better than jumpseating, but still isn’t being based at home.
Republic has a training backup of several months to get into class. With the newer raises, Envoy pays about the same, plus has a guaranteed job at AA if you stick it out. Republic has a longer upgrade too.... yet their classes are full, and Envoys last class had 20ish in it.
What’s different?
Better work rules, and
13 bases vs 4 with a similar sized pilot group, meaning over 300% better chance of being near a base to drive instead of commute.
They don’t like to open bases because of ground staff, and open/close costs. Give them a way to open & close mini-bases without the costs of displacement bids and you’d probably get much wider choice of places to fly from as a home base.
I am home based with positive space tickets to/from my trips. Even with real tickets, you’re still a commuter. You can’t just run in and pick up a day trip and be home for dinner with the family.
A1d type stuff will come as the shortage worsens. The better solution is more bases.