I won’t echo most of what has been said here (which I believe to be correct), but I will echo the trip trading bit. Opportunities to manipulate your schedule at United (in the right fleet and seat) are pretty phenomenal and presently there’s nothing to touch it at AK. It’s just a huge deal to be able get rid of garbage and pick up something good over it, or put your name in for premium pay and have it auto pickup, etc etc. I hope PBS and a good trip trading system is being discussed at part of the new AK CBA.....

Reserve
 

I believe reserve for UAL is all long call also, that might be a factor in your decision? I hear reserve at Alaska is a special kind of hell. Go to United. I'm leaving Alaska after two and a half years, I wouldn't recommend anyone come here if they have an opportunity at the big 4.

I left almost a year ago and haven't looked back. The only thing going for Alaska were the crew. I miss flying with majority of them but QOL/schedule is so much better at the gravy train. The grass is muuuch greener for sure. If you're as unhappy with crappy scheduling and subpar management as I was, I highly recommend leaving for the big boys.