Not a UAL guy…I’m at AA but have flown with several FO’s with no degree, a few with no TPIC, all were great. Definitely no issues flying wise or personality wise. I think it’s the smart way to go currently.

At the extreme, take ERAU. Pay nearly $300k have 250 hours at year 4, start working 3 years later, regional 3 years later, major 3 years later than the 18 year old that jumps right in. ERAU guy pays about $200k more, so that’s millions over a career in TVM, starts earning later, contributes to 401k later (DC). And loses 3 years at his highest earnings at the major. Figure $6 to $9 million career difference. right now paying for ERAU to go airlines is like paying for a 4 year degree from a private university to become an electrician or plumber (which would require additional training after college) It just doesn’t make sense.

Yup, the majors could easily require a degree again, mitigate that by getting an online aviation degree while instructing and working at a regional…just in case.