DOGIII

In his defense, he said "basically." But I agree with your hedge; you can never really know in this business.

fiftyone

I am no where near qualified and have a long way to go before even being worthy to read this thread. However, I commend those who provided substantial feedback to the OP and those with similar questions. It is rare to read such a helpful thread that has not been hijacked with negativity.

SuperEZE

A big thumbs up
Any tidbits from AA perspective

Thanks all

full of luv

Contentment is generally not a trait found in the average 121 pilot.

The negativity you speak of comes from a sense of frustration in that once you find your "career" airline, after about 12 years, the only way you get a raise is through section 6 negotiations. Top that with EVERYONE has slightly different priorities and pilots will complain about something that others find great.
In my company, some pilots want to be able to work on/sell back vacation. Some pilots want to keep vacation, vacation, and increase it.
Some want more pay and hours each month, some want to drop down to near 0 as much as possible.
The negativity is a manifestation of the frustration when some pilots don't think their priorities are the same as the union's and/or company.
Think there is negativity now...... wait until/when/if there is an economic slowdown/downturn and watch the arrows fly as pay/schedules/lack of progression is affected.

Best of luck as you enter the industry and keep an open mind when you hear complaints. Remember that every single bitter/disillusioned pilot you fly with once you enter this industry was at least at one point the happiest/most content pilot ever and something happened to cause them such personal angst.

Sliceback

full of luv - I was with you until you said the new hires are all happy. Coworker talking about how bitter a classmate was on day one. New hire dinner? Bitterness overflowed. Everyone’s thinking “you’re young, you got it made, you’re going to be bitter for a long time.” They nailed it. He’s still miserable. Twenty or twenty five years and counting.

TRZ06

You're right. I don't know and don't feel good about leading anyone in the wrong direction. I hope he and everyone else in his shoes make the right decision.

full of luv

That’s unfortunate.... no doubt if your unhappy at the new hire dinner you will likely never be content.

tomgoodman

Keep in mind that many pilots are happier than they will admit. There is a widespread feeling, which does have some basis in fact, that failure to squeak means no more grease.

Al Czervik

Very true.

4runner

I was very content in my life and career until I came back to Merika. The amount of bitterness, resent and frustration here is alarming. It’s also toxic and contagious. I haven’t gone out with a crew this whole month because I didn’t want to further encourage the spew or get spewed on. Pub and a Tom Clancy book in a corner is where I’ve been. Nice to know you, see you at show time Skipper and IRO angry pants.