I went in to Chat with one of the base chief pilots the other day about (AS) hiring status. I have recommended someone. He said 80 to be hired this year. 50 already here. Interviews continue...Last hiring window = 2000 apps. 700 had internal recommendations. Next hiring window opens in October. All current apps will be flushed. Those with active apps will have to re-apply/update. Hiring 150 next year.

Any further news on the October window?

Hopefully their new order will help the hiring.

I know historically they like guys from the Pacific Northwest or Alaska. I was born and raised in the midwest and have done most of my flying out here (currently MSP based). Does this hurt my chances of a future job at AS?

The problem they see, is that historically, a good portion of people at some point in their life decide they want to end up back where they are from. And it seems like they'd prefer to keep the amount of commuters down. PNW/Alaska flying experience is also big. You probably have a chance for sure, but just wanted to let you know what I've heard.