Originally Posted by
Bearhawk23
Hello All,
I’ve received CJOs from both American and Delta and currently reside in Reno. I’m looking at the LAX base for both airlines right now as a forever commuter since my family has developed strong roots where we live now.
Trying to be objective as far as I can tell the commute is not horrible for either carrier.
AA pros:
Seniority advancement
Better Commuter Policy
AA cons:
less sick accrual
less vacation accrual
less widebodies right now
DL pros:
LAX 757/767 Captain in less than 3 years
Currently the biggest airline in LAX
Sick and vacation accrual
DL cons:
MUCH slower seniority progression
probably won’t make it to the left seat on a wide body bigger than the 767
Looking at the seniority progression it takes me half the time at AA to reach 50%. It will take me approximately 10 years to reach 50% seniority. At delta it will take me just over 20 years.
My priorities:
1. Time off with family
2. Widebody QOL and flying
3. earning potential
I have 32 years left in my career currently.
Would love to hear some opinions if possible what others would think about in my position. I feel blessed and am torn with what will be the biggest decision for me and my family. On paper I believe DL is better financially with the ability to roll thunder once I gain some seniority. But the seniority progression at AA can’t be matched by anyone especially Delta who’ve hired thousands of pilots that I will probably never have the opportunity to surpass.
Posted this thread in AA as well but would love input from both sides. It seems like the AA contract is comparable if it passes so would really appreciate any input.
AA “better commuter policy”, if you like to lose money or scramble to get trips from open time to recover it, go for it.
My friend that commute for AA are always calling, because their Js policy does not count the AA pilot as part of the BOW. At Delta, they will bump a passenger out and you’re going.
AA you only need 1 flight, that’s the only benefit. Delta still better.