Continental retirements and hiring
 

I spoke to a Continental pilot on the jumpseat who told me that there could be up to 700 some retirements in the next year. He said that many there will take an early retirement, taking the lump sum option, because of what they've seen happen to United and Us Airways.

He also said the training center is currently maxed out, with simulator space is being sought off property. Hiring two classes per month is all trng can handle.

OK, a small update.... I spoke to a CAL friend of mine on the west coast who said that the 700 figure is too high. More on the order of 300-400 pilots to retire the 12 months.

Flea

Interesting numbers.

At UAL there are 236 pilot reaching age 60 between June 12, 2005 and June 11, 2006.

2007: 303
2008: 258
2009: 230

1027 total due to age 60, no telling how many more will just get fed-up and leave or go out on medical.