I started with ExpressJet about 6-7 months ago, but with all the recent news at AA/AE, I've been seriously considering jumping ship to work at Eagle. I have an interview next month and don't anticipate I would have any trouble getting hired.

I realize this move is risky, since the spin off of Eagle could potentially mean less flying and furloughed pilots. However, I suspect that any drastic changes at Eagle are at least 2 years away, and would not result in a 2yr FO being furloughed.

I'm 26, single, and can easily move to wherever I'm based. Eagle's bases are much more appealing to me than XJT's. By leaving XJT, I would be signing up for another year of 1st year pay and giving up over 250 numbers below me. However, I would gain access to better bases, the potential for a much faster upgrade, and an eventual spot at AA.

ASA/XJT's upgrade time is over 5 years right now and Delta is constantly threatening to pull 50 seat RJ flying. Also, I suspect any new equipment will go to Skywest, the golden child.

In considering the above, I'm having a tough time deciding what to do. I obviously won't have a real decision to make until the interview next month, but I want to get my facts straight before that time comes. What do you all think? Would I be crazy to leave XJT or crazy not to? Anyone have a crystal ball I can borrow?

 

I would stay away even if I wasnt at an airline. Everyone seems to think this is a great deal all the while their behind is getting a little more lubed for what will happen. Why in earth would you give up having 250 people below you for the chance that some day you can work for the crappiest major there is? You wouldnt have it any better at eagle. They are just trying to be king sh!t on turb island

 

Yeah, listen to this guy.....it's a fact.

 

Personal opinion imo

 

Here are my thoughts, as a current Eagle pilot. Well it's something to consider. Especially if you would be happier with the bases (ie not commuting). The upgrade time should only get faster at Eagle as AA starts hiring. (junior CA went to 4/07 DOH on this last bid) We are primed for massive, unending movement in the future, as is AA. As always though, this could change overnight with any type of fuel price, or economic crisis. As far as Eagle losing flying in the future, it definitely is a strong possibility, but we are looking almost certainly to get at least 3 years doing the current flying before losing any. The hiring agreement with AA is a pretty good thing to keep in your back pocket, but I would caution using that as your sole reason for coming to Eagle, because should you choose to use it, you will be giving up lots of seniority at other places that you could probably get hired at while waiting for your number to come up at AA. But, in my mind, getting an interview, passing the interview, and getting hired at any major, no matter what your experience or background is, is never a sure thing, and a guaranteed slot at AA, as a backup if nothing else, is very valuable. As with any move, its a gamble, and it's always risky. But, if you don't have much invested in XJT yet, its something to spend some time thinking about and deciding if its worth the risk to YOU.

 

What are the facts again exactly?

 

The crappiest major, "king sh!t", won't have it any better at eagle...... and the butt lube.

 

LOL. I'm glad you guys have it all figured out.

 

Yes it is my opinion AA is crap but id like for you to name one good reason to fly there. Also the K!ng **** comment is referring to the fact they are a regional trying to make it sound like they are a better place than any other regional, hence the comment. Too slow to figure that out I presume. AE will end up in the same boat as Comair, nothing is pointing to them being a success story.

Also have any of you seen their latest recruitment email?

What flavor is your kool aid? I prefer Grape

 

Well we are a "super regional" now so i dont understand why you would want to even work for a place like american. Why go somewhere that is not "Super"?