mesabahouse

I wanted to get some suggestions from the group. I start class next month and I'd like to get some thoughts on if it would be better to go to the 737 or 717. I'd eventually like to get back to MSP so I thought of trying to bid the 737 but there are also rumors of a 717 base possibly coming to MSP. Any thoughts on the ER? I would like to fly it but I'm concerned that my relative seniority would be low for a long period of time. (Depending what future AE's bring to the ER)

Thanks in advance

Piklepausepull

Be gutsy and bid the 88/90 in msp!

Ray Red

Even if you don't get 717 and they open a MSP 717 category, you can get out of your seat lock, the the remainder would get tacked onto a new seat lock.

RamenNoodles

MD88 or 737.

Whichever one is available and you're able to hold in your class is the one I'd recommend. I don't have a crystal ball as to which fleet will get you to MSP the quickest. 737 is a growing fleet but its more senior than the 88. The 88 is a shrinking fleet but plenty of people bid to other equipment every AE.

I would avoid 717 if you want to go to MSP. There haven't been many 717 positions available on the latest drops, and its never a good idea to bid for a fleet with the hopes a new domicile will open. Crew resources could change their tune on the MSP 717 base at any time.

Best of luck!

EDIT: Regarding the ER, I left the ER for the 717 because I was very junior and the commute was awful. If you value your quality of life, don't even bother. If you have no family and just want to fly the trips, then you'll love it.

Owlchemist

A few MSP 88 slots when unfilled in the December AE I believe so eventually those will be offered to new hires. The second round of MSP 737 bidding was still being filled by 1-2 year FOs. It depends on how much of a rush you are in to get back to MSP but 88 should be noticeably faster.

Peoloto

Crazy things happen but looking at how many people have bids in for MSP ER compared to other bases make it look like it will be quite awhile... there are less people bidding for lax 777 or most of the 330s . I would bid 73,320 or 88 if you want MSP.

mesabahouse

What could I expect the trips to be like on the ER being Junior. I know this is tough because it depends on the base (SEA,NYC,MSP,DTW) Just trying to get an idea if it's more domestic or would I be flying international more because of being on reserve.

mesabahouse

I'd be willing to wait a little longer to get back to MSP if it meant I didn't have to fly the MD88. What's the new junior plane after they are phased out?

Spudhauler

Let me answer both your questions. First off, you'll do mostly domestic flying as a junior pilot on the ER. Secondly, it'll be a while before the 88 categories are gone. It includes the MD90s, and we have 65 of those. Just my opinion, but don't shy away from the 88 if it means getting based in MSP versus commuting. It's quirky, but driving to work cures a lot of the ills the plane may have! Regardless, welcome aboard, and best of luck! Despite our flaws, this is a good place with good people. You'll have a great time.

Peoloto

I would not recommend commuting to jr ER. Seriously when I say theres alot of senior people bidding MSP ER I mean it. Like double compared to other bases.