Hey Ladies and Gents,
Quick question about HKG/CGN. Is that still a requirement for new hires to do 2 years at one of those locations?
Thanks in advance

That applies to all pilots, not just new hires.
From the contract:

"A pilot must complete two years as an active pilot in the FDA, unless released from his obligation due to extenuating circumstances by the Vice President, Flight Operations."

If you upgrade while on an FDA, your commitment increases by another 12 months.

But to answer your actual question as written, no one is required to go to one of those locations. All are volunteers. Volunteering may or may not move you to the top of the list.

No one has to go to HKG/CGN, but if you accept or bid and get awarded one of those domiciles, it is for a minimum of 2 years.

I know the plan is to hire 400 this year. Any idea of how many have been hired so far?

Seems to be about 40/mo on average over the last year or so

212 or so.

Thanks for the info. Another follow up, on the application the "are you willing to go to HKG/CGN" is still there. If you put no, on your application would that be a non-starter to be considered for an FO position? Or would it behoove me to put "yes" and then explain later that I have a 120 lb dog that would be considered prime rib in HGK?

Did you read the part before you sign the application where you swear everything you answered was correct? Do not lie on the application, even a joke like this would probably get your application yanked if they could figure out who you are. At one point going to CGN/HKG was probably an application enhancer. It likely no longer is. Both domiciles have adequate volunteers.

Thanks...still a chance of getting a call this year👍🏼