Originally Posted by
Fly4FunAA
I know this thread is about leaving Delta to UAL, but as a Southwest guy who posted earlier in this, I can’t help but bring the discussion back up. More so is it worth coming to United solely to fly WB?
Both Southwest and United work for my lifestyle. I have one kid and an ex-wife, so I have some mobility, but still want time off for my kid. I could drive to work for both airlines. I’m on year 3 at SWA and making about 20k a month minimum with a great schedule. I know I’ll be taking a pay cut if I jump to United for a while. I’m 30 so I have time, but is it worth the financial hit and seniority loss to go to United to have the options to fly WB some day? Or is WB flying not as glorious if I already have the quality of life and WB FO equivalent pay that I’m getting at SWA?
As of now I’m still waiting for a class date with UAL. It sounds like potentially the spring is when things will start ramping up again. I hit year 4 with SWA in May so I’m hoping UAL can get me in before this becomes an even harder decision. Although, I can see myself happy at either airline.
You never mentioned your age or where you're living. Age probably plays a part in the decision. As does location. The flying in IAH for example isn't that great on the WB but the coastal stuff is sweet. (Even DEN 787 which is crazy senior but pretty damn good) IMHO if you're under 45ish it's definitely worth the change if you're considering WB flying. I've said it in other threads but if you can nap in a bunk there's something to be said about WB flying and days off. You won't be holding it short term but in time you'll be able to hold 28 hr 3 day trips (9 work days/month) and of that 40% in the rack. It doesn't work for everyone. Some people can't sleep on a plane. I was one of those when I was younger. But, if you can it's the best flying out there. And the pay paycheck is pretty decent lol.