Back to Back 20 day lines suck, if you don’t want them; however, it’s not the norm. I personally know of an instance where a junior guy ended up in this situation. He made some calls and was able to get his line moved to get some days off in between. The company is small enough that things can be worked out most of the time.

 

While I’m logged in here, here are some other things to consider about Western Global. Pay is 10% higher than what is listed on the APC profile. There is a retention bonus of $30000 paid after 3 years. Additionally, Since 2017, there have been bonuses paid every year but 2020. In 2017 it was $5000, 18 was 5% of base , 19 was 14.6% of base , 20 was 0, 21 was 15.4% of base, and 22 will be at least 5%. There is also an Employee Stock Ownership plan (ESOP). You are automatically in and it costs you nothing. It is a federally protected retirement plan. Many argue that it’s a scam. They have their opinion and refuse to budge. I believe it has huge potential. Payments were made into ESOP accounts in 2021. For the next 5 years, the company is contractually required to make payments of $45million yearly into the accounts. For an FO, that could be $50K to $100K, Captains $100K to over $150K. Eventually, employees will own 37% of the company. If the company is sold, you are in line for a big check. The current Union negotiations put the ESOP in jeopardy unless they can get it in the CBA. Most guys don’t understand the ESOP and I’m sure some naysayers will respond. They will use United as an example. WGA is not United, but it makes for a good talking point for the uninformed.

 

Good thing it’s not United, good point which I hope to be true. At $45M annual requirement with a rounded up pilot group of 200 (maybe you have more, don’t know) that’s worth $225K annually just as an average into the accounts = Fantastic! How did your ESOP account look for 2021? Well on your way if truth be told - sounds like a Great Deal and it would seem like a no-brainer not to put it into jeopardy. Cargo has shown increased profit, especially in the some of the ACMI sectors it’s time to capitalize on it. If y’all can make this stick and keep it away from flesh eating lawyers at critical times the industry could benefit greatly!

 

The ESOP is for most people in the company, office, MX, loadmasters, pilots, etc, except non-US employees, contractors, and those covered by a CBA. We are not yet covered by a CBA. That could take years. So the total number of employee/owners is about 350. Last years short year contribution totaled $9 million so the avg Captain got between $25 to $28 thousand. Expect 5 x that amount for the 2022 deposit, so $125000 to $140000. When people leave the company, their unvested portion goes back into the pot and gets redistributed annually. That may be an additional couple thousand a year. If you are in your mid to upper fifties in ag, this is a pretty good deal barring any catastrophic future events. Your are 100% vested at 6 years and can withdrawal 1/5 of your available balance each year after retirement at 65, medical retirement, or your beneficiary can receive it if you die. The ESOP is supposed to foster a spirit of ownership, stewardship, and responsibility.

 

Appreciate the detail. Looking forward to your outfits success as a whole. Definitely could be a model to duplicate once it proves to be ironclad and gains traction in the upcoming years with a positive outlook of growth in the future. Newcomers and resurrected outfits are becoming abundant during these times. Thx again.

 

How exactly are the 747s and MD-11s run like different companies?

 

Perhaps the equipment usage rate, capabilities and limitations along with the specific contracts they hold or support. Just spitballing. WGA guru will hold the truth.

 

Figured as much. Waiting for one of the gurus to chime in if they ever do. I've just been hearing multiple people saying the two fleets are like different companies and was wondering if it's anything more than the usage and capabilities.

 

Regarding the different company assertion, I don’t see that anymore. 2 years ago, the
74s weren’t flying as much as the 11s. Now with the addition of 74s, they are pretty busy. Our routes are different, so we don’t see each other on a routine basis. The pay is the same and we have Captains leaving the 11 to be Captains on the 74s, so that option exists. So I would disagree with the overall premise.

 

Captains on Md11 going to 747 at the bottom of the seniority list.