Originally Posted by Groundbound

I need some help from the group to clarify my understanding of the situation.
Live in Denver, 40 yrs old, kids at home for the next 8 years. Have a CJO with Southwest and an interview with United next week.

I’m really conflicted as to what makes sense. Obviously I don’t have a choice to make until United calls, but I’m still having the debate in my mind. What I am looking for is rational thoughts with facts, not opinions. I realize I might be in the wrong place. 🙄

It seems like with Southwest, I will have more control over my schedule, be able to pick up and drop/trade trips, work hard on my 3-4 day trips, 3-4 times per month, but overall have more days at home. I understand that reserve at Southwest usually means a you will be working, so reserve in Denver might not help me get more days at home. I’m also less worried about furlough at Southwest, although I realize they recently send out notices. I don’t believe that they will get rid of their “we’ve never furloughed” trophy that easily. Also, it will be 5-7 years to upgrade at which time my schedule will get worse.

With United it seems like I will have easier work days, but can plan on working 16+ days per month and making less money until upgrade….which will be quite a bit shorter than SWA. In addition, I will have more options when it comes to type of flying and in base opportunities(TK, bidding check airman lines, etc.). I have heard that United reserve rules suck, but if I can get reserve in Denver, I’m not too worried about that. I also think that as I get older, United flying may be more conducive to a better QOL.

I believe I will be able to hold Denver at either airline within 6 months, which should help with QOL as well. Benefits, retirement, etc, should be fairly comparable when the new contracts are finalized.

I realize both United and Southwest pilots think that their airline is the current “dumpster fire”. I don’t believe that can really be true. Pros and cons to each and different for everyone’s individual situation. What I’m trying to figure out is what makes sense for me. Most important for me right now is time at home, at least for the next 8 years. After that, I really don’t care how much I’m gone, but believe an easier schedule as I age would be prudent.

Please add in things I may have left out, or correct information I may have gotten wrong. Thanks.