All very valid points there Sliceback.
All those places seem viable, I would definitely favour a base with the quickest seniority progression and getting out of reserve.
PHL and/or DCA seem to be checking all the boxes, with DCA seemingly easier to be allotted to looking at past several class drops.
Thank you
Originally Posted by
Sliceback
PHL and CLT have w/b's. PHL is the primary Europe departure city. 2024 PHL 787 flying will be significantly larger than previous manning.
WV? Easy enough drive from PHL (4:45), slightly longer from CLT (5:45) (both from the airport). CLT is warmer, nicer housing closer to the airport, and maybe less expensive???. PHL is more junior and has more w/b flying. Depending upon where you live around PHL you can add JFK and DCA into your base options. I did all 3 for 34 years out of NE Maryland.
Once you're onboard you'll have several months to look at the bid sheets, type of trips junior, midpack, and senior guys hold, and be able to project your future seniority numbers into today's flying. That would give you some insight no one else can answer for you.
CLT has warmer weather and the mountains nearby. PHL (DCA) have better access to the ocean, beaches, boating, skiing (somewhat...), as well as the larger cities. If DCA is on your radar you can live west/SW of PHL and have better access to DCA. Move north/NE/E of PHL and you make NYC/JFK more accessible. There's so many variables that only you can answer. Kid's only going to be in college for 8 year... (I'm kidding) but do you want to base a 14-16 year housing decision on where they're going to be for the next couple of years?
No one's mentioned ORD. If you like cold weather it's an option. :-0