Thanks for all the replies. I know it's a real shot in the dark due to being so far out, but do you think there is a big difference in time spent on reserve between the two? Say between QX at SEA and OO at ORD/MSP?

Very much so. OO guys/gals are getting lines quick... QX you wont fly much on reserve right now. They “panic” hired after there fiasco last year with staffing and canceling flights. So they over hired just incase...

Take a look at Compass, SEA is their junior base at the moment and reserve is minimal. Compass also offers 4 hotels for commuters each month. That has been a lifesaver for me.

I have a Compass interview next month, so will certainly consider that. And the hotels would be ideal. Would it be reasonable to commute to Compass/SEA from BZN on Horizon? Obviously I'd be behind any QX/AS commuters I assume.

That's for the jumpseat ONLY. Offline pilot commuters are behind EVERY class of non-revs for cabin seating. Be forewarned....

For what it’s worth, I’m 6 months on property and sitting import reserve in MFR. I did get SEA for next month, but you can probably plan on MFR for 2-3 months. These things are cyclical, however, so take this with a grain of salt.

Don’t come to SKW if you want SEA
 

QXE is doing more and more 175 flying, CPZ has a huge footprint in SEA and for the past year or so SKW’s flying has decreased. Most junior FO in Seattle has been with the company for 2+ years.

*that being said things can change and they often do.