Thanks for the replies. It is a real shame that things have turned so badly in ANC. I have chatted with several other crew members, and most are very unhappy with these lines. Only two pilots I have talked to are okay with them—go figure-- they live in ANC. And yes, as a probation pilot, I want to keep a low profile and not ask too many questions or display any unhappiness. I am very privileged to be here, and it's been a dream of mine for many years. But, unfortunately, everything has been sliding down on the QOL scale since I got on.
As far as VTO and VOTRs look at snapshots, it seems like those are being taken really fast. Same as the reserve lines (which the vast majority have four reports to boot). This renders a junior guy with the 6-8 report schedules.
Regarding moving out to SDF, it seems that the vast majority (both CA and FOs) will bid out. Most pilots commute to ANC, and everyone is itching to get out. My entire class of 16 is awaiting the bid to bid out. It will be hard to leave ANC with so many senior guys wanting to bounce, but who can blame them?
The seat lock issue is also a problem. A lot can happen in another year, and I don't know if I can keep up with these schedules. Being on probation makes matters worse as it is not affordable to buy tickets, and not having a commuter clause for other carriers helps.
This has come as a shock to many new pilots and me. I would have thought about moving over if I had a clue that this was how things would play out.
I hope these lines were a flop due to the peak and the long bid period.
By the way, I found a B&G post, but it seems like the vast mojirty of pilots suggest leaving for another airline as things here will get worse rather than get better. So maybe I should heed the advice.