Originally Posted by
PICisking
That was the impression I had as well. Also that bigger class sizes would mean faster seniority progression (more seniority numbers being added below you), which in turn could possibly mean being able to get the base you want or get off reserve sooner. 2026 is at least supposed to be a better year for hiring, we’ll see if Republic thinks so as well.
Airlines always need more captains than FO’s. Many more CA’s in non line flying positions than FO’s. They generally have much more seniority which means much more vacation time to cover as well. They can also pair two CA’s together which they can’t do with two FO’s. So there is an increased versatility aspect also.
they very well could be building up a buffer of surplus CA’s in expectation of the mainline hiring that is all scheduled to really ramp up after the holidays. Smart actually, if that’s what they’re doing it for.