Originally Posted by
captain152
I don't mean to be the optimistic weasel here, but does everyone really think that the majors will never hire again?!
I know the industry is going through one of the worst periods in decades, but still, pilots can't live forever (even if they could, they can't go past 65 now), and unless the ENTIRE economy folds, the show will go on and pilots will be needed as the cycle continues. Sure, the days of going to a regional and then hopping up to the majors in 3-4 years may be over, but that doesn't mean it won't happen.
Stay strong, and keep your heads up, the show must go on!
Even if the majors do hire again (which they certainly will), you will be at your regional for so long, that leaving your $80,000 captain pay at your regional for an FO spot at a major making $40,000 the first year and sitting on reserve and Ready Reserve will be a very hard decision. The quality of life issues, pay issues, and the fact that there are no more pensions to look forward to are things that will keep people at regionals until retirement.