Originally Posted by FreqFlyer

Just remember that you are asking on a forum where 90% of the people that regularly post here despise Alaska, therefore they will overwhelmingly tell you to leave.

Only you can really know what is right for you…However I will say, that if you want to live in Seattle, you’re in a great spot with a good stable company. You’re not wrong for wanting job stability and have a fear of being furloughed. Also, remember that Alaska has lots of good changes coming soon like PBS, Golden days, and better reserve rules in the pipeline. Plus we just got a nice pay raise, and 2nd year FO pay is pretty darn good.

Good luck in your decisions…

Originally Posted by GoodJet

Personally I really hope you stay at Alaska. You have to do what is right for you and your family. Only you know what those requirements are.

Here are my considerations for how I chose where to work:

1) Paycheck matches the paint on side of the aircraft
2) Commute to work involves a car
3) Live in the most JR base
4) Live where the training happens
5) Somewhat fit in with the culture of the pilot group


1) I was a SkyWest and Alaska was the first place that offered me a job where the paycheck did indeed match the paint job on the aircraft. 2017 was different for hiring. United et al blew me off. Never even got an interview.
2) I can drive to SEA in about 30 minutes on a good day
3) I lived in the most JR base. Now that base is SFO but it's changing fast in 2018 it was Seattle.
4) Seattle is where the training happens. You can pick up training events or work for the training department. They still haven't even sent me a thanks but no thanks. I'll keep applying to be an instructor.
5) I feel like I have a lot more in common with the former VX crowd but I appreciate we don't rush around at this airline. Overall I don't mind the work culture. You won't know what your day at the office will be like until you start working somewhere.

That's what worked for me. You have to do what works for you.