I am just saying Whoever will hire you first, but exclude any of the "blacklist" regionals....those who have been created to get around other regionals contracts, and those which will hire people with a pulse....I can only think of a bout 3 or 4.....so for the most...I would say whoever will hire u is the best regional! I am not naming names

My 2 cents.

Look at a regional where you could spend some time at. No one really wants to stay at a regional for years, however, it could happen. If things go to hell agian, and airline history has proven that it can and will, it would be nice to be somewhere that you didn't hate.

I see... what are these "blacklist regionals" ???

Also, i had another question...

Would it be better to get on with a turbo-prop.. where upgrade time is quick...
or jet time with a longer upgrade??

The way I understand it: If you don't have to worry about age restrictions (I believe you need to be 23 for your ATP, although you can take the written whenever you are ready. As long as you are flying 121 the written stays current. If your aren't flying 121, it lasts for only six months) then it's all about PIC time. If you're going to have to wait for your ATP, you might as well get jet experience as you won't be able to upgrade without it. Some Regionals (Pinnacle, for one) have really quick upgrade times regardless of equipment.

As for the "blacklist", I have only been told that Mesa's on it.

There are lots of exceptions. In fact there are plenty you shouldnt even waste time applying to! Mesa, TSA, Colgan, etc.

Maybe toss a coin :)

TSA has a contract...its just not current. We're in negotiations for a new one. Hopefully it won't take too long, but I'm not betting on it.

I wouldn't say Mesa is on a blacklist. You're not going to hurt your career by going there...you might not like life too much though. I don't work there, but people are running from there just like they are at TSA.

NWA, this isn't a remark directly back to you, just a general mark...

Remember when naming the "less desireable" companies to work for, its the company, not the pilot group.

As far as contracts go, you may be able to get a view on the union's website. I am not for sure on that one.

Do not put to much weight into upgrade time. It can change quickly.

QOL is big. Commute plays into this. If you do not live in base, then you have to ask, "How is the commute? Is it one leg, two legs?"

If you ask me go to any of these 3 regionals(not in any order):

Skywest
Republic Airways Holdings
Express Jet

Both are hiring a lot and seem to have the best chance at a good QOL.

Remember QOL is really defined by you. So ask what you want out of your regional and find the one that meets your guidelines.

Good luck,

G-Dog