Airtran or Alaska
 

What is going on at da Tranny or Alaska today with regards to future hiring? I guess Alaska has been putting off their interviews a little which would make me nervous with the age 65 stuff. I am looking for opinions from Airtran and/or Alaska pilots as to what is going on at their respective carriers, not other airline pilot's "opinions" on which one is better. Thanks.

Hey Freightpuppy,

You lookin' for a new job already? :D

Da Tranny... latest from the CP's office is hiring around 300 for '08, 10 new 73's delivered this year (I think), age 65 is not playing much of a factor as we have a fairly young airline, and new union BOD voted in with contract negotiations hopefully beginning again in the spring.

Also, the $25 non-rev/jumpseat fee is history!!

If it is opinions you want then... I would not put Alaska on the top of any list. I was told this 6 years ago when I was hired. I would have never thought 6 years later I would be looking to go somewhere else. Yes, my apps are out and yes I am looking at a different job. I have said this before, "It is an O.K. job and it could be worse." My buddy who went to Airtran at the same time has been a captain for 4 years now. It will probably take me 9 years if I want to upgrade in SEA. I do understand for the industry 9 years is better than average. Alaska is a conservative company and will always be. Don't look for much hiring any time soon or any growth.

Thanks guys.

Justin Case.....that was our assessment of the situation too. We just wanted to confirm.

1800....LOL! No, it's for a friend (for real).

I understand that most of what is written on here is personal opinion, but, has anyone heard anything official or heard from someone in Alaska management what their plans for hiring are this year?

Also, just read on this site that they are now only supposed to hire 10 in 2008!!!!??? 10? Is that after the class that was supposed to go through in early January or after? Any info would be great

Nope...10 for 2008 total. I have been trying to help a buddy get here (his request) and that number came straight from HR. Actually, HR said they were meeting to further adjust that number down...

WOW! So in other words, they are not going to hire at all in 2008!
Thanks for the info man!

I wouldn't put money on either direction. We're in negotiations, short staffed, and originally retiring quite a few. Not everyone will stay. But there won't be much hiring for growth. Morale is the lowest I've ever seen it. I'd look elsewhere.