Eagle or ExpressJet?
 

I've got my choice between either American Eagle or ExpressJet with the same class date. I'm having a difficult time justifying either choice.

Possibly someone with a bit more industry knowledge or inside information could give some opinions in terms of company stability, number of newhires expected after me, upgrade time, QOL etc?

From what I've heard, It sounds like Eagle may continue to hire 2-300 more pilots this year, and upgrade time has been dropping a lot. However they still have the potential concern for the company divesture i guess? I don't know anyone who works for XJT to give me that side of the picture.

They are roughly equal, but XJT has better workrules I think. That might change over time since XJT is being integrated into ASA.

As you mentioned, if AE gets spun off that could create long-term instability, but any such sale would have to include a certain length of guaranteed contract or no sane buyer would touch it. If you just want to upgrade, get your time, and move I would guess you would have time to do that before the wheels come off. AE upgrades have been ten years in the past, but they appear to be more in line with other regionals now.

If you're looking for a regional career, XJT/ASA is probably a better bet although there are certainly no guarantees.

If you're looking to get your time and move on, I would pick the one which has base(s) near where you want to live.

The name Homer isn't very popular at Eagle.

+1...the less commuting..the better

This is very tough, to be honest they are both good choices. Xjt has a great contract and 95% of their planes are under a 10 year contract with 9.5 years remaining. Both are solid pilot groups and good places to work from what I can see. Options are great!! Good luck!

I actually enjoyed flying with Homer. I couldn't personally blame him since I came after the debacle. You would be surprised at the stories when he was nearing retirement after a few sips of JD.

Thanks guys,

Does anyone know how much more XJT plans to hire or are these the last few classes?

Also where are they sending the newhires recently? chicago or are people getting to choose?

If U don't mind sharing your TT info & other quals that got U both invites, that will help all the aspiring guys to get an idea of the trend escpeially at Eagle.....

I received a invite with ASA/XJT with 720/140 and a internal rec.

Did U have an internal rec at Eagle also.

Also, any thing else that may have helped you stand out than the rest of the croud......