I think there is a difference between starting over at Year 1 at a regional vs. a legacy/major. You just can't look at the hourly payrates, you have to consider other factors as well that can help recuperate previous income (Rigs, per diem, contract, QOL, benefits, company stability/future, etc)

I was in the same boat as BlueMoon. I left Comair for another regional. Sure it sucks starting over, but I figured I could have stayed at Comair for another year, moving backwards on the seniority list with no additional income in sight (lineholder) and then get furloughed this or next year. The paycut would have hurt a lot more after 4/5th year pay than 3rd.

And yes, whoever came up with this 1st year/probation crap needs a kick in the balls.