Do the Maddog...it's good for ya...j/k! The NYC bunch is great so don't sweat it too much if you do wind up there. Do your time and bid again later to something else once you're more educated. It does seem like there are constantly folks getting slots to other bases on the 88/90...so why go through training more than once and be seat locked in your first year? Lots of folks have the "big shiny jet syndrome" that compels them into something that isn't good for them. It's really a little different for everyone. I don't think the pay is any different the first year or so minus the int'l rates etc. After you look at the reserve guarantee on other airplanes versus average line values for the 88...it blurs further. Initially the ER is probably easier to commute but then holding a line on the 88 can be pretty nice. The 88 category is traditionally filled from the bottom so you can look at future numbers and have a little bit of an idea of where you'll be in Sept. The entire 88B category in NYC is pretty small...approx 60-70 folks. Use that number to see where you'll wind up. The ER is subject to folks rolling in on top of you seniority wise. They get to where they can hold a line and then bid in on top of you to the ER. If you're junior you'll probably stay somewhat junior on that senior airplane. Who cares though if you like int'l stuff and live in base. The QOL will be pretty good. Good luck with it and chose what's best for you but realize that it's all pretty good!