Have you considered choosing based on geography? It's all a little bit like rolling the dice, and while nothing is certain, it seems to me that regionals like to specialize in "regions."

The top 5 change yearly...
In no specific order

About 4 years ago the list was:
Horizon
Allegheny
Piedmont
Comair
Air Wisconsin


2 years ago it was:
Skywest
ASA
Comair
Air Wiskey
ACA

Who will be on the list next?

It is all subjective, it is what you want and what you can live with/without

I went to AWAC for the following reasons:

1. Great contract, even though it is concessionary
-Generous commuter clause [most important thing for me]
-Relatively easy commute to PHL
-good 50 seat FO pay
-good 401(k) match and separate company contribution

2. Seemingly progressive management (investing in US Airways, etc)

3. Full guarantee & single occupancy hotel room during training

4. I never heard anybody say a bad thing about the company or pilot group!

Upgrade was claimed to be at 2.5 years, but that was because of attrition and not growth. While fast upgrade is important, I wasn't willing to sacrifice a livable wage as a first or second year FO to get to the left seat at all costs. If attrition continues at its current rate I'll probably upgrade in 3-4 years, or if there is any growth that will drop even farther...I'm not holding my breath.

Your mileage will vary...

The reason why I feel that way is based upon a number of factors:

1. I chose CHQ for their financial & economic stability. Also liked their mission statement.

2. ASA, CHQ (Republic Airways Holdings), and COMAIR all have domiciles in cities that I wouldn't mind living in. I live in Florida and have asked questions about commuting, QOL, etc. Also, I prefer to live in the SE part of the United States.

3. I have looked at each airlines route map system. I like flying in the eastern half of the US.

4. I use to work for Delta @ KPBI and COMAIR @ KCVG. Despite what they have been through, I still like the "Delta Family.":)

This is just a short list, but there are other reason as well. Hope this helps.


atp