Then those people don’t get the good stuff. The seniority system rewards longevity and everyone doesn’t get a trophy. Those with the seniority to get the good stuff now put up with the leftovers getting there. Not everyone gets to be a captain, not everyone can fly the 777 or 787, not everyone gets the good vacation slots, and very few can pull off all three at the same time.

Anyway, this doesn’t have much to do with picking United or Delta. Both are great places to be, however they are only as good as their current contract and management team. If I had an offer from both I’d go with the one with a big base that I’d want to live in or that I could easily commute to. Both companies are great places to be and should be around for a long time. Decide where you want to live and enjoy a great ride.