It didn’t take 3 years to earn. It was paid immediately, just has strings attached. It’s not uncommon out in the real world. It varies, whether it’s prorated or the full amount is due. Either way, repayment upon early separation is a thing. It sounds like most people in my class took it, and immediately invested it into one form or another of low risk liquid or semi-liquid vessels (i bonds, CD, HYSA, etc). If they all stick around, the $35 (now 50) is worth more; if they bail, it probably out-earned the 4% interest and they can pay it back plus the interest when they’re off to Delta.

Again, not a fan of how it was handled. But everyone insists management is nefarious (agreed) so it’s not like they’re just going to blunder through a legally-ambiguous loophole or “oopsy.” They’re shrewd, not stupid.

Obviously a 3 year tether isn’t going to make someone just stay for a while. Since again, you can either earn a decent return on the bonus or return it if you resign. One way I’ve heard it is that cadets/program get essentially that much via a CFI stipend and ATP CTP costs. If those guys and gals are bound to a 3 year commitment, it’ll be harder for them to bail and repay on their own. But also, hired into your first jet with 0 Turbine time, you’re going to spend a while here anyway before United or other will call. The entire “bonus” scheme is stupid. I’d have rather seen that money rolled into actual permanent payscale across the board. But I’d like to see a lot of things, mentioned over in that other thread. Hopefully we get it in the next contract.