This reminds of a couple months ago when I had picked up a turn advertised by another pilot. A week went by and, forgetting I had picked it up as an advertisement, I traded it for a better turn in open time. By the time I realized what I had done it was too late and I was annoyed with myself for such a bonehead move. In casual conversation with the captain, I asked him what his thoughts were on what I'd done. Was it ethical or was a I stooge who picks up open time when there are guys on the street. His response? A roll of the eyes and a "Do you REALLY think that not picking up the turn would keep a guy off the street?" I was flabbergasted.

It wasn't the first time and I'm sure it won't be the last that I talk to someone who sees no problem, or even brags about, picking up extra flying while we're furloughing. I'm at XJT and we have 335 pilots on the street with rumors of more furloughs on the horizon and there seems to be NO shortage of folks picking up open time. Am I the only one bothered by this?