I didn't get that information but maybe it was because I didn't ask any questions about timing for the move. I looked at the projected staffing for 73N LAX and it showed 20 F/O's for April 2008 and 40 F/O's for June 2008 (same for Capt's I think). I guess the question is, when do the -700's come on line? I guess we will be flying whatever 737's are available by June 2008! See you out there! :D

Can you show up with an expired medical? If I read correctly, it just has to be current to "complete training," right? Thanks.

They start coming on line in August, in Atlanta, to destinations where the -800 is performance limited - think Central America. The -800's will be distributed before then and the ATL 737N category will be fat on pilots until the -700 deliveries begin.

The plan is to hire a lot (70 a month) in early 2008 and try to get training done before the July, August, block hour increases. Total 2008 around 650 (no changes thus far).

Domestic margins are getting tight. Fuel costs could effect 737-700 options since they are growth aircraft. Right now there are 10 firm, 10 options being looked at hard and SouthWest is deferring a lot of options.

Hard to believe this is a serious question. You are kidding, right?

I was asking for a 'friend'?

I tell my friends that Delta is the best 121 gig on the planet right now and it is easily worth the effort and expense to show up prepared to succeed.

A pilot without a Medical isn't really a Pilot at all (being legalistic) and could expose the Company to a disability claim, as well as the other Pilots to a draw down of their Mutual Assistance Fund. Not to mention everyone from the Secretary who inputs the documentation into Pilot Records to the Program Manager would be asking questions about "the guy with no Medical." The goal is not to stand out, but rather to be outstanding.

I can't say for sure this is an instant deal breaker, but the risk sure exists that Delta would have to take immediate action to protect their interests. Some new hires have been sent away and asked to return when they were able to complete training (with the commensurate loss of over a hundred seniority numbers).

Your friends and mine will love it here. I can't get this goofy grin off my face - even flying the Mad Dog.

Yeah, what he said. You could show up with Elvis sideburns and dreadlocks too, but why push it? Now is not the time to stand out in a negative way--not with hundreds of people who would kill for your spot in Indoc.

Go get it renewed--it'll be the last one you'll ever pay for. FWIW, they are going to collect all your documents to input into DBMS during Indoc, so yeah, they will probably notice the expired medical. That, and the FAA can ask for your stuff at any time when you're in a training program. And you'll need it to ride the jump seat.

That begs a question. When flying 121, do you have to carry your tickets and medical with you like a drivers liscense? Please forgive my ignorance as I have only flown mil.

Yes! In fact, I got a copy of all my certificates from the FAA and carry them in my flight bag.

Carrying your licence and medical are manditory while on duty and you will be asked to show them to the FAA, company check airman, and captains if you are jumpseating. I've had three FAA inspectors this year ask for my credentials. If you loose them fess up as soon as possible airlines have ways to get temporary authorization quickly.

About showing up without a current medical: VERY BAD IDEA

If you're trying to save a few bucks (a noble pilot manuever by the way) it probably will not work. Delta automatically pays a set fee into your paycheck in the month your medical expires. Since you're not in the system until you show up for work my guess is you would not get the payment until your next expiration month.

Remember you are on probation. One negative may not get you fired but they add up and right now there are plenty of people out there that would love to have your job.