Originally Posted by rickair7777

I was at the regionals for 10+ years, so similar experience but not as severe.

pay loss: planned ahead, and it wasn't that bad anyway. First year should be north of $100K these days anyway, second year pushing $200k. I had planned ahead because it was a premeditated career move. Hopefully last Saturday didn't come as a complete surprise and you have some socked away. And hopefully your lifestyle is structured so you can do triage (I'm not afraid to enjoy my income, but I ensure that I can afford the house and basics if push comes to shove).

reserve: you adapt pretty quickly to the new reality. Worst part would be sitting reserve in base as commuter.

upgrade: Might still be able to snag one in a year or three if needed. Otherwise FO pay will quickly get in the ballpark of NK CA pay.

family time: Everybody adapts. We have facetime now. Might be able to bid overnights at home, I've done that on and off as available.


bases/commuting not commuting: If you're fortunate enough to have multiple CJO's in short order, you can prioritize domiciles in your decision. Otherwise it depends on your family circumstances... is moving in cards? I'd avoid long commutes, or commutes with limited flights, or routes with a lot of commuters. Avoid multi-leg commutes like the plague if possible.

Bottom line, you'll adapt and be fine and likely be better off at some point in the future (if you're not too old). A little seniority will open up many new options.