Yeah, once you've done it a couple times it isn't bad. But we don't train for it. The first time I did it, it was late at night, bad weather, and both of us hadn't been there. The military is a little different I'd say, in prepping for flying into "difficult" airports. I'm sure you know this ;)

Swore id never do it... But I am considering compass for the quick upgrade. Leave one regional for another. Don't know if I'll go through with it though as it such a risk and for other reasons. Just wondering if I'm too late to the game. I have the time to upgrade (4.5 years 121). Compass is the only regional I'd go for as well. Seems like it might be worth the risk but I have no clue. Prob best to stay put.

had you considered this 6 months ago, absolutely.....now, its a big gamble

Yep... Well I'll just apply and see where things are if I get offered a job. I can always turn it down.

would you say its still a risk worth taking though? if the capt/FO list is relatively equal it would be about 350-375 FOs total out what I believe is 751 total pilots(i think). with 90 or so(i think) still to flow to Delta this year, coupled with at least some portion of FOs not having the time to upgrade, in addition to normal attrition....still seems to have a good outlook. Thanks in advance

404 will chime in shortly, he has run the numbers on all this and i haven't.

cool thanks a lot guys

I don't have firsthand knowledge but it appears Compass is nearly at the point of street captains. I've read and heard that the most junior captain alternate is currently in initial training.

Everything is a gamble, unfortunately you likely won't know if you made the right decision til you retire. Good luck.

Might it be street captains soon? yes maybe. If so will street captain last long? I personally dont think so because FOs hired 13-15 months ago are getting their time. Could it continue to be 6 months? Maybe.

If your willing to gamble and take a chance hoping it happens quick, ask yourself a question. "Would you be able to live with your decision if it took 1.5-2 years to upgrade"? Do you think you'll upgrade 1.5-2 years at your current airline? I asked myself that question, and in my personal scenario I was able to because of my spouse's income and because we are motivated to move west.

Hard for anyone to help, I was asking THOSE SAME questions as you have. Not sure if any of that even helps.

A couple of the guys on the Captain Alternate list just started sims down in STL this week...they're still in initial hire training.