Originally Posted by
Noworkallplay
I guess it depends who you are flying freight for. As a domestic knuckle dragger at Purple my schedule looks nothing like what you describe. When I was an FO I did very little night flying if any. In fact, as a guy who use to be at a “legacy”, I would never return to the 3-4 leg days of pax hauling with 3 hour sits at the terminal. Plus, I couldn't afford the pay cut.
I guess to each their own. Just like pax airlines all cargo isn’t created equal. I bet if flying cargo kept a bunch of pilots on property at UAL the line would be out the door.
First off, he described his freight operator as an ACMI so don’t get your feelings hurt. Second, if you are upset at the generalization, don’t do the same in return. Not sure what “legacy” you flew for but seeing that you are now a captain over there at FedEx, im guessing it was during the lost decade that you are referring to. As much as I’d like to address your “couldn’t take the pay cut “ reference, I’m not going to stoop. I’m sorry your passenger flying experience and timing wasn’t rewarding. As someone who flies a narrobody for a legacy, I rarely do 3-4 leg days and cannot remember the last time I had a sit of 3 hours anywhere. But if I did, I’d enjoy one of the nice restaurants at one of our hubs if I didn’t have a multi course crew meal being served to me on my next leg. To each his own is right. Never applied to one of the freight haulers. Never thought I was above it at all but rather always wanted to fly pax. 22 years in (15 with current “legacy”) with 21 years to go and no regrets. Flown first officer on a few aircraft and captain last 7 years on narrow body. No doubt my job is not on stable ground going into next year but I wouldn’t change a thing career wise. I’m glad your career change has made you happy. Hope the attempted “dig” at pilots going through what will probably be the absolute worst period in the history of airline operations gave you what you were seeking. All the best.