Originally Posted by
KnownTraveler
If you're a new hire, but an old guy (48) how do you navigate the initial bid?
My case:
48 years old (17 years left)
Live close to MCO (will always commute from there)
8xxx series SSN - so I think that helps bidding initially
Goal: Maximize income over 17 years, while minimizing commutes (1-2 trips per month [even if they're longer] is better than 3-4 trips per month).
I hear 73, 7ER, 765 are now doable bids as a new hire. I have no idea what life is actually like on any of those.
ATL seems like the obvious choice commuting from MCO. But is it?
I have a dream: Be gone 10-12 days per month - make captain pay within 5-6 years. Don't care about weekends, red-eyes, etc. (no kids at home). Biggest thing is fewer trips. Length of trips, not an issue. I'd rather do 12 days on, 20 off. Instead of 3 on, 5 off. Don't know if that's even a thing at DAL.
Am I dreaming too big? What bids make the most sense for that? Reminder: only 17 years before I'm out.
Any thoughts would help - even if you just want to make fun of me - witty jokes welcome.
Thanks.
NB 737 and 320 have five day trips and you could make Capt in < 5. Downside is 2 x 5 day trips won’t be commutable on both ends….most likely commutable on one end, but they will pay 52:30.
if you want longer than 5 days trips to help cut down on the number of commutes, you will need WB, but you won’t be left seat in 5 years.
Yes yuu could make ER left seat in 5, but most likely you will get domestic trips, so now you are back to the 737/320 issues described above.