Soooooo………ABX is on the way out. There’s a lot to dissect in your comment but I’ll focus on the quoted statement. I will also say I am bummed about losing the Trans-Atlantic flying, 3-4 day layovers in Europe were wonderful.

If you want true apples to apples comparison then the second part (retirement contribution )is absolutely correct, but the first part is not so cut and dry. ABX Pilots enjoy 14 hard days off a month. Not 12. If a pilot opts to work 2 more days, most likely at premium pay his monthly credit can be much higher than the 72 at Delta and others for the same number of work days. I’m not saying Delta doesn’t pay more hourly but to focus only on min guarantee as a number is skewed data.

I have found there are two types of pilots at ABX. Those that are happy and those that are moving on which is great for them. For me I personally have the best quality of life I’ve had in 17+ years in this industry. Our work rules are decent, I haven’t missed a birthday or holiday since I’ve been on property (that doesn’t mean I won’t someday) and with smart SAP bidding I can usually get my credit a little above guarantee and still keep 14 days off a month. Is it perfect? No, but there are people that are here for the QOL, the work and soft pay rules, and the People we fly with, not just the hourly rate or guarantee number.

Question, Does Delta/United buy you a ticket home for Christmas Day if you are on a stand over day out of base? I ask simply because I don’t know, and was shocked last year to learn that we do. To many this gesture is huge. My wife said the other day (while discussing whether to start applying to legacies) that she has had more quality time with me in the last 2 years than the previous 15. That statement really got my attention.

I have a friend who left here for a company that promised to show him the LUV, and he was so miserable 3 months off OE that he’s moved on his second major in 8 months. My point is not everyone loves their job no matter how big hourly or min guarantee is.

Will we weather the downturn? Who knows, but for now I choose to enjoy my job here, flying with great people and my excellent QOL I’ve managed to enjoy to date, and if that changes I’ll decide to cross that bridge if/when I need to.

For those curious about ABX by all means if after reading all the info in this thread causes you concern, then find something that is/will be a better fit for you.

Disclaimer: my opinion, my experience and your mileage may very.