1. Yes it does. HK created an alter-ego once and he'll do it again. HK is no different than JO at MESA... they both worship Frank Lorenzo. Don't know who that is? Go ask any old guy at a major how much Frank Lorenzo helped this profession. If he doesn't punch you in the face for saying that name you'll soon understand. HK and JO are the Frank Lorenzo of today! So yes... TSA is bringing down the industry. Quick upgrades won't last forever. Remember quick upgrades and being understaffed indicate one of two things... huge growth or people aren't willing to work there. Acquiring 2 emb145's from MESA is not huge growth!

2. Yes it is. Right now schedules aren't bad because they are understaffed therefore schedules have to be efficient for the flying to be covered. What if things were properly staffed... I promise that you would spend a lot of time sitting around hotels. Also they can now sit you on reserve out of base... enjoy sitting reserve in a hotel on a less than normal call out time when you could just be sitting from base. Being a commuter this may actually be better for you.

3. FYI... There are 3 direct flights a day to STL from PIT. This is a post USAirways PIT reduction number. There were 4 before the cutback.

4. True, us at the "better" regionals aren't expanding at the moment, but I will make approximately $12,000 more this year as an FO at AWAC then my buddies at TSA will. This number is based off not only hourly rate but also the vastly superior work rules... If things continue as they are I should upgrade at 2.5 years.

A snapshot of the moment (i.e. upgrades, reserve time) is not what you base your choice on. What if hiring stops again (and it will) at the majors... where would you rather be stuck?