Really comes down to knowing what the seniority progression looks like. DAL has been hiring like mad for a good 10 years. I'm guessing most of the 12,000 - 13,000 they did hire will still be there in 20 years right in front of you on their list. Kind of sobering. UAL just went nuts hiring the last year or so, so maybe, just maybe there's something in there. Had a training partner recently who's dad was a very senior DAL CA and brought this point up to me. Son was in late 30's and referencing above numbers advised by dad to go to UAL instead of DAL. At least you have options.