Originally Posted by JetJock16

First off congratulations, you’re in a rare position seeing you have a choice which is something many don’t get. Both are good companies but there's a world of difference between them.

Mesaba's set to get 10 more CR2's and 22 more CR9's (#’s could be different, just pulled it off of APC). That's HUGE when you look at the big picture. Also if NWA decides to pull more a/c from Pinnacle then you can expect Mesaba to grow even more. Mesaba's owned by mainline which could be good and could be bad only time will tell. For examples just look at DAL and Comair/ASA (ASA us sold to SKW) also AA and AE. Growth means little reserve, relatively quick upgrades and better QOL because of seniority gained from massive hiring. Pay is industry average to below for almost all years (except first) but I'm sure that's set to change. 3 domiciles to choose from also improve QOL. It’s always nice to have choices.

ASA's got no growth on the books and maybe some reduction with DAL announcing a 35 jet reduction in regional flying in 08. Also, I could be wrong, but I think the ATR's time is extremely limited. Pay is near industry leading with excellent QOL and pay rigging. 1 Domicile means no choices. Upgrades around 3 years and they'll probably stay there due to attrition.

My advice, look at were you live and choose which ever has a base there. If neither do and you plan on commuting then look at the number of daily trips between the two cities taking into account the type of a/c (50 seaters are not good a/c to depend on when commuting). Also look at the airport itself, example ORD is not a good apt to commute to due to shear volume and a poor design that restricted apt growth. MEM and ATL (based there and ATL’s very efficient even though it’s the worlds busiest apt) should be very easy to get in and out of. If you’re going to move to the domicile then look more at the airlines position as far as its future’s concerned. This website should help you determine the number of daily flight and types of a/c, it's a wonderful tool for all commuters.

http://www.nonrev.net/tools/timetable/

In the end I think both have good futures but Mesaba’s where I’d be headed if I had your choice. Their growth and domiciles are the determining factor for me.

Best of luck!

JJ