Originally Posted by
duvie
We expanded at a rate that I doubt we'll see again. The SkyWest seniority list almost doubled in two years, which is why we had such a quick upgrade. Now, to make jet captain, junior folks and new hires would have to see upwards of 2000 pilots hired behind them, a feat that even in (consistent) good times would take at least four years. The reason Eagle has such a long upgrade is because of the size of their pilot group and substantial portion of lifers. I reckon we're in exactly the same boat now so I don't think a minimum 5+ year upgrade in the jet will be unusual. Not pessimistic, just looking at the numbers.
I don't think there will be as many lifers once airlines like American lose half their pilots within the next six years or so. Who knows though, I know the movement is slow now but I'd like to think its bound to pick up sometime within the next 10 years...