Not at all. That is purely a bait tactic for the SJS pilot. So now to be hired, not only does MAG make it easy for the wannabe airlinepilot but they dangle the emb175 slot in your face to keep you on the line. Oh boy, here come the masses!!!!

The union nor management have stated/slated any training slots beyond the initial cadre of pilots. The Initial Cadre (Check Airman etc.) kicked off this month. MAG does not even have a UAX embraer on property yet.

But sure guys keep holding on ... While your chances for seniority plummet and you get "bait and switched" to the CRJ.

Someone correct me if I am wrong?

Predictions:
EMB175s + CRJ900s + Easy to be hired at = plenty of pilots
(MAG doubles RAH in attracting new hires due to no Q400 nor ERJs)
Masses of new hire pilots provide zero leverage for Labor to negotiate any contractual gains. MAG stays as crap as ever, same said pilots b*tch and jump at first JetBlue, Allegiant or Spirit Offer. MAG again tanks in performance and loses UAX flying ...and the cycle of 2006-08 continues. JO buys latest Maserati.

 

I would think it's a safe bet to say that if you're hired for June and beyond that there is a good chance to fly the EMB and be "given an EMB class date."

 

I agree with this statement. However small classes will still be run for CRJ to replace current CRJ FO's upgrading as Capts on the EJet. Not to mention any additional CRJ flying. Rumor has more UAX700's coming and interspersed 900's for USX being added.

 

This is exactly correct, and that is why YOU ARE NEVER 100% GUARANTEED the class you think you're getting. If you think otherwise you're deluding yourself. We used to say "Needs of the Navy" - and it's no different here.

It may be that we now have a "kinder gentler" recruitment philosophy - Perhaps they are honestly trying to accommodate people. I hope so! Just don't be naive, at the end of the day you can be switched, don't be surprised if it happens.

Think of it this way... 20 people show up for an EMB class. Company suddenly realizes they're looking at staffing crisis on CRJ, and EMB is looking ok. Perhaps attrition spiked, or whatever. They will move those 20 guys to the classroom next door in a heart beat, and they won't think twice. Trust me - I've seen it more than once.

You'll go to the front office and explain to them how you're wife is a school teacher in Houston, and the only reason you took the job is because there was a base there, and on and on.

If the past is any indication of the future, their answer to you will be short and not so sweet... Take the CRJ class or hit the road.

Again though: I'm not saying this is LIKELY, it is unlikely, but it happens! 90% you'll get the class you expect. Hows that?

 

Loosely speaking, yes. I'm sure they're projecting out that far. Penciling in names perhaps. The EMB's are a mammoth sized recruitment incentive, they're not going to squander the opportunity to exploit it fully.

 

Is the e175 really that big of a deal? It's not like it's faster or bigger than a 900 or anything. Are people just in love with the underwing engine thing? The only other benefit I can think of is a little extra head room.

 

In the case of the hopefuls I've talked to, it is all about that IAH base, not the airframe. Which in itself is risky - even if it turns out true, could change on a dime.

-or- the perceived elevation in seniority as a brand new FO on EMB, vs at the tail end of the CRJ list. I can see that being a factor, especially if you plan to commute.

 

It's all of the above for me. Thanks for the advice guys it really helps. Based on the timing of my current class date and what's been said here I believe I will shut my mouth now. If there is a high probability the June and later classes will go to the Embraer that is good enough for me. It is all about the IAH base nothing more any relative seniority advantage would just be icing on the cake. I appreciate all the input and if anyone has more information on the breakdown of future classes please share. Thanks!

 

If IAH is what you want, apply to SKW. We have an established and operating IAH base

 

I think JO buys latest Maserati is the only sure thing