I dont think your estimates in regards to xjt are true. The furloughed pilots all had just under or slightly over 1 yr of seniority not the 2 you stated. If you were hired in late 2006 you would be a lineholder in ewr but on reserve in cle or iah.

It is all a gamble. Knowing what i know now this whole regional game is the biggest circle jerk i have ever seen. As soon as one airline gets a good contract and work rules they are underbid. As soon as the underbidders get a good contract then THEY are underbid. Which regional is better? they all suck and our career is circling the drain until the flying is brought back to mainline. Regionals getting bigger might mean great things for your upgrade or your paycheck now but it is ruining your long term career.