Greybush

I just saw this base listed on the latest meet n greet flier. Anyone know anything as far as when it will be open for bidding? Would it be smart to go to a new outstation as a new hire, or would it likely have senior transplants immediately?

Thanks for any seasoned insights.

Captainbfv

The base is suppose to open in October I believe. No one really knows what type of flying it will cover, but most likely some of the current Florida flying along with a San Juan. The vacancy bid for the base is suppose to be in July, so I would imagine if that's accurate it would also mean a new hire class. The truth is new hires will most likely be awarded this; I'm sure a few current pilots especially junior captains will bid it. Every small base that has opened has had little to no problems filling the captain spots. Its the FO positions that have the "higher" turn over, which is good news for anyone that is fairly new and wants to become senior in that base faster. Fact is, with the current model and growth, being in the larger more senior Florida or West bases, you can be assured that you'll be on reserve for quite some time.

This airline operates differently than others for sure, and all I can say is being junior reserve in the larger bases, especially Florida sucks big time. You'll spend quite some time in the back seat of a "Larry Limo" or Lyft. Reserve in the smaller bases is better if you're looking to not fly as much and are ok with not making much ABG in the slow season.

rolo

So if I’m in the pool of pilots for a tentative class date this-summer-ish and my ultimate goal is to get to JQF where I live, I may get lucky is what you’re saying.

ramalama

I wouldn't sweat it. If you want it, you'll get it.

Greybush

Thank you for the info. I’m in the same boat as rolo up there.

akulahunter

"So you say there's a chance?????"

Yes, a chance. However, JQF will probably have a lot more interest than ABE or DSM.

Greybush

Rolo, I sent you a PM. We're both in CLT.

j3cub

That region (AVL/JQF/TYS/MYR) has turned into another Larry's Limo hell. Be prepared on reserve to LL east and west to cover trips in all those bases.

ramalama

Yes but think of the scenery of the car ride!

DiveAndDrive

I’m assuming BNA will fall into that “region”?