SherpaLifter

My phone rang with an interview invite. I'm now indulging myself by daydreaming about what the future might hold. I'm hoping to have to make the decision between the Airbus and the EMB-190 sometime in the near future.

Most of the stuff I’ve read says 12-13 months for the EMB-190. Any JetBlue pilots know how long the upgrade time to A-320 Capt is running? Pro’s or Cons for choosing one over the other? I realize I have the cart way in front of the horse at this time, but I’m thinking positive. (And Safety, Caring, Integrity, Fun, Passion).

Thanks!

hair-on-fire

There are a lot of things you can consider, but both have positives and negatives. I started a few months ago and chose the bus. You're only locked on either airframe for two years, so if you change your mind later it's not like you're stuck forever. I chose the bus for the better starting salary, the better schedule quality, and overall quality of flying/destination. Schedule quality is going to be weak on the 190 until the fleet size increases. Plus, there's always the chance there will be some delay with 190 deliveries and your stint as a 190 FO will be longer than expected. I figure I'll enjoy the 320 for two years and then make a decision based on how far away 320 upgrade is.

Good Luck

SherpaLifter

Thanks Hair on Fire

Good points. My assumption is that all A-320 new hires go to New York. Any idea of how long on reserve until you can hold a line. Any words of advice for the interview?

hair-on-fire

Everyone in my class that wanted FLL got it. LGB would probably take a few months.

We were told 4-6 months of reserve, but I'm guessing it will be more like 3.

For the interview just think of as many stories as you can where you provided customer service, overcame an obstacle, and demonstrated a positive attitude. I practiced in front of the mirror and wrote my stories down, but there are many ways to do it.

Good luck

Fly4Beer

Here is some INFO ONLY that we recently received


FLL FO base is as junior as Class 20-05 (finishing IOE now) 2 of 3 got it that wanted it

LGB FO base is as junior as Class 19-05 (been on line for a month) Not how many want it. My guess is 3 per class.

JFK CA is as junior as Seniority # 745 (on property 27 months)




That being said here is my best guess. (Please remember this information should not be used for anything other than a point of interest).



A320 FLL FO base Approximately 5 to 7 openings will be available to Class 21-05 through 23-05 within the next 1 to 3 system bids.

A320 LGB FO base Approximately 3 to 5 openings will be available to Class 20-05 thru Class 23-05 within the next 2 to 3 system bids.

A320 Upgrade 2 years and 5 months for now and I do not foresee a significant increase over the next 12 months. After the next year it could spike a bit when people are free to rotate off of the E190.

E190 Upgrade 13 to 15 months. (This number could change a bit if deliveries are accelerated or delayed)



IAD Base No new rumors.

MCO Base No new rumors.

BOS Base No new rumors.

SherpaLifter

That's the most specific basing info I've heard. Since I don't know anyone at JB, it's very helpful. I think I would try to get FLL as it would be an easier commute. Hopefully seniority within a class is by age at JetBlue

Thanks Beer, I owe you one.

JayDub

It is based on birth date, but don't shoe yourself in as the oldest quite yet. Heck, I think we'll have more FOs retire than CAs (well, that's an exageration but you get the point). Be careful commuting into any FL city. Those flights get full pretty quick, and a ton of pilots live in the sunshine state. Then again, it depends on where you are commuting from.


Respectfully,

JayDub

SherpaLifter

Well I may not be the oldest but I did get the senior citizen discount at the buffet last week, (even though I am short of the big 50). Flying must make you look older than you really are.

automatique

It's like a car, my friend. It's not the years, it's the mileage...

Neil Eubich

Actually I know this guy and he started his Initial training at Miami on Feb 4, 2004 so it's been less than 2 years for him.