DeHavilland DHC-6-300 Twin Otters (2 Sea / 4 Land)
Saab 340B (3 aircraft with service commencing January 2013)

 

My alternatives are working for one of the many lower 48 regionals that perpetually go through cycles of hiring and firing as contracts are renegotiated. They also open and close bases as often as, one changes underwear.
I'm looking for the most stable alternative to the above mentioned. I've already ridden the American Eagle wave and it turned into a total wipe out, perpetual reserve, local base closing, sub contracting feed.....

The pay at all carriers is abysmal. If I am looking for the most stable and healthy of all entry level 121 carriers outside of Alaska, Seaborne on the cover looks like a good place. Organic growth, tried and true business model, above average upgrade time. Home almost every night, zero reserve. Am I thinking clearly here or creating something in my head that isn't?

My wife and I have examined the finances and that isn't going to be a determining factor in whether or not we decide to take the plunge on island Island life, we can deal with low pay for a while. Stability, few overnights and an expeditious route to the left seat are more determining factors. Left seat not because I'm in a hurry to move along but would like to make enough to buy a house on the Island.

Are the Saabs going to be run out of San Juan or STX?
I've heard two cons: Pay, lots of legs.... Are there any others?

 

Just a friendly thought!

Island life is extraordinarily different. I lived and flew in St. Croix for a while and had a wonderful time, and will always think of it as a second home, however there are lots of things to think about. If you have children/families, this discussion can get deep; and very expensive.

I have many great friends who work/have worked for Seaborne. SBA has a very unique culture, you will fly LOTS of legs, and the pay is average at best. Fatigue will set in quite rapidly. I also know that they have been quite financially unstable in years past, so keep that in mind.

Buying a house on the island is a large undertaking. (I assume you have other means of income flowing in?) There are a multitude of factors that you have to understand and consider.

I would be happy to discuss this with you further, PM me a contact and maybe a phone discuss is in order. I'd love to share with you what I experienced to help guide your choices.

 

Twin Otters on Wheels going away in June. SAAB and DHC-6 on floats only

 

For the folks who fly floats at Seaborne: how did you get your MES ATP? Getting the SES doesn't seem that difficult or expensive, but the MES is another story.

 

Dunno about the rest but vermont technical college outside of KBTV has a flight program and a twin SeaBee. Probably pretty cost effective.


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It's not getting the Ames that's the cost but the required 50 hrs for the Atp......