Thanks Doug!

Can anyone tell me with any certainty whether Piedmont is hiring into a pool, or if they actually are starting classes for the people they're hiring now? And if there is a pool, how long might that be before getting to a class?

Also, does anyone know when Piedmont's contract is up? I've heard rumors about 2009 (i.e., something may be happeneing with the company around that time).

Thanks!

Contract is up in 09, and PDT rarely hires people into a pool. If you get hired, you will usually get a class date at the same time in the 2-4 week period following the interview.

What everyone at PDT is hoping will happen is that we get 400s, and agree to fly them at a lower rate just to get them on the property, and then renegotiate in 09. If we dont get the new airplanes, I doubt there would be any reason to renegotiate as the cost of maintaining the current fleet would just become rediculous. We'll see...

Do you happen to know what airlinepilotcentral's site means when it says that Piedmont's fleet is 'shrinking to 50 a/c"? Are they really downsizing their fleet, and if so, why are they hiring so much?
Thanks

I was curious how the fleet at PDT is? Are they quite a bit older? Any updates in the past couple of years to the cockpit? Just curious.

Todd

For the average line guy there is little difference between AQP and other training. With AQP you can take data from your Flight Ops Quality Assurance (FOQA) program as well as other info to modify and change the training program to emphasize areas that need additional work.

Also AQP allows you additional flexibility in training. The only real requirement is that you assure that the aviator meets the same standards as with standard training programs.

So, AQP allows an operator to tailor training specifically to the needs of that operator, not just another cookie-cutter training program.

That's what I've been hearing from others who went through AQP training...thanks for your take on it.

And again, does anyone out there know anything about the "shrinking fleet"? Thanks

AQP's not too bad. Just be sure to study what you can prior to class, be instrument PROFICIENT (not just current), and relax. It's really not that bad, it just takes some good memorization skills! Older guys have typically had a harder time than younger guys with the testing, as it does involve a lot of memorization. Usually, it's the limitations test that gets 'em.

As for the so-called "shrinking fleet", it's mostly just a matter of leasing costs. The company has consisted of Dash 100's, 200's, & 300's, but as of late the company has begun returning our 200's due to the HUGE increase in lease costs. In return, we are supposedly getting previous 100-model leases back. Within the last month or so, there has been a lot of buzz going around about delivery of more 300's and even Q400's. No one is holding their breath, but it seems a little more promising each week.

I like to think its because we get a little more delusional each week:rolleyes:

I think you're right.