True, but given the business model there's real risk (likelyhood?) that it will settle out at a lower level over many years. Inflation will take it's toll, if not concessions, and at some point the market will favor the airlines and lower-cost regionals will win FFD contracts. If there aren't enough low-cost competitors, you can always just start one up from scratch and hire young, eager non-union staff looking primarily for experience towards career progression (vice compensation or QOL).

If you're much under 50, I probably wouldn't intentionally plan on a regional career.

I doubt the compensation will drop back to $19/hour but there's still the ghosts of Comair, XJT, TSA, Compass to consider...