This is all great info, thank you. Just almost timed out in iAH due to the ramp closure for the TSRA that I understand happen most every day. (We had to accept an extension to finish the day.) Kinda reinforced the reality of commuting to IAH.

Thing is, I want to fly as much as I can. What I dread is sitting in a hotel room for 5 days on my own dime without flying. So now I'm just trying to learn how best to actually fly and not sit. Sounds like the APU at 11 am base time is the only real option?

Also, with an 18 hour callout, I don't have to be an an airport hotel. Are there any nicer areas within an hour or two drive? AUS is a fun place but it's 3 hours away. Where do all the UAL pilots live? Please pardon my ignorance but I haven't a clue about IAH...