Originally Posted by UGBSM

Here is how I spent my first 7 years at Delta, starting in 1991:
2 years 727 flight engineer, probation/new hire pay.
2 1/2 years furloughed.
2 1/2 years 727 engineer B scale

16 years into my career and after Delta emerges from bankruptcy (wiping out my pension accrual), I finally get to start saving for retirement, which is five years from now. A lower ALV isn't going to help me with that.

I would loved to have spent that 7 years flying an RJ, even on reserve. But no.... instead during my furlough there was no lowering of the 75 hour cap (similar to ALV), everybody green slipped all they wanted, and worst of all captains that were retiring at 60 simply down bid to my FE seat keeping me out. They were called ROPEs (retired old pilot engineers). Also no furlough non-rev or jumpseat privilages back then. I did have paid COBRA from my fellow pilots, thank you.

I'm not whining or complaining. This career has its ups and downs and I've learned that somebody always has had it better than me and somebody always has had it worse. Often you are simply dealt the hand that you play. No matter what happens, don't be bitter or resentful. That will eat you up. Just be grateful for what you do have, not unhappy at what you don't have.

Being furloughed is a lot of stress. Try to make the best of it. Your best years are still ahead of you, God willing.