With my apps gathering dusts at the majors for the last 9 months, and the Active duty paycheck no longer coming in, I'm looking at putting in some time at a regional (lack of jet time & 121 experience are 2 of the only un-checked boxes I have left). Pay isn't a huge deal to me since they all pay chicken feed and I have a Guard gig to supplement.

Trying to make my way through all the pedantic bulls--t over on the regional board is just mind-numbing, but I've done my best and they all sound about the same to me. Since I don't live in a city that has a domicile, is there any reason I should pick one regional over another, aside from ease of commute? I obviously want to spend as little time there as I need before getting a call with a major or legacy - does that mean I shouldn't worry about upgrade time and the long-term forecast of my various options?

Any other overall advise out there from ex-mil guys who paid their dues at the regionals before moving on?

 

In no particular order, skywest, compass, air whiskey, horizon.

 

+1 for Skywest. I can't speak from experience, but I have been to a few job fairs and interview seminars over the last year, and the pilots I've met from Skywest seem to speak highly of their company.

 

Also a guard bubba with a regional gig at Republic....although currently on mil leave. Don't go to Republic...it's toxic. Air Wisconsin has arguably the best contract, but I would say go for the easiest commute. That alone will have the biggest impact on your quality of life. Any of the 4 that Rickair mentioned with an easy commute will be the best of the worst until you get a major gig.

 

SkyWest or Compass.

 

Trans States or PSA for the quicker upgrade. The 121 PIC time will help. This is a weird industry. You have to assume that each job you get will be the only one you will get. Go for the PIC time where you can.

Depending on where you live, consider Allegiant. Time in a mainline airframe will make it easier to get the mainline job.

 

i did compass while i wait for a call....i actually really enjoy it here, other than the pay part.

 

I'd say skw or compass. Skw myself, I wanted the west coast flying. There's lots of decent bases too.

 

I know what you are getting at here, but you have to be careful about this mindset. The tide is turning towards the pilot's side for the first time in a long time and all the regional pilots are beginning to wake up and get some self-worth. Even if you go to a regional as a stepping-stone, be willing to take some ownership and fight for the wages you deserve.

 

Whichever regional makes allows you to not commute. Always live where the guard unit is, period.