Originally Posted by
ClipperJet
Absolutely that happens. All The time. But, from management’s perspective, they chose what they believed to be the "best" candidate--not just the next in line. It's always true that no matter how hard you work or how good you really are, the owner’s kid will get the job/promotion before you do.
The seniority system does a lot of good things. It (theoretically anyway) helps keep management from threatening pilots who make safety decisions that cost money (won't fly with a maintenance issue, divert, take extra gas, call in sick/fatigued, etc.)
This system, while inherently good when taken in its entirety, has a downside: You can't change companies without starting at the bottom
having worked for non union airlines who promote out of seniority I certainly didn't find it a good thing from the safety standpoint. Be ready to ignore mx issues , duty limits and better not be late blocking out.
I know that each of us is this great aviator being held back by all those ahead of us on the list but maybe just maybe that isn't so. In a large organization of thousands how on earth would one determine who was the best? Best at what?
Who is the best pilot here?
A non union pilot who works all day in the office then takes off to fly a 14:30 duty period at night hoping his F/O is rested and can take up the slack? Or the union guy who wants more gas although the minimum legal amount of fuel is onboard?
My leading questions more then suggest my opinion but I know who I want flying over my home.