Going to ASA/XJT
 

What I thought looked like a good decision a few days ago is taking a turn for the worst. Lets go over this: ASA is losing 14 planes (8 CR7, 6 CR2) and XJT has contracts for 27 aircraft up in April. Thats a total potential reduction of 41 aircraft by the end of April. By just some quick numbers, that means the combined company could need 400 LESS pilots by summer 2012 and thats just the start of it. Is this really the best place to go right now? It certainly seems like they are moving in the wrong direction. Anyone have any incite to prove me wrong? It seems like the upgrading and hiring could take an abrupt 180 pretty quickly here in a few months. Plus, look at the amount of 50 seaters they have. Oh boy.....

Welcome to the airline industry! Guess what? It doesn't matter where you go, this can happen to ANY regional.

Not sure how you came up with 400 less pilots...

To answer your question if ASA/XJT is the best place to go right now?

I and everyone else don't.

Probably figured a conservative 5 crews/10 pilots per plane. 41 airplanes = 410 pilots.

*IF* we were properly staffed.

He is also assuming that XJT will definitely lose the 27 airplanes, they could very well get the contract back, renewal, whatever you wanna call it.

"WE STAFF ON BLOCK HOURS!!!!!! WE STAFF ON BLOCK HOURS!!!!"

(angry German kid reference)

If I were starting out today, I'd apply at GoJet. I know that is not a popular opinion but if you can't beat them, join them.

You beat them by NOT joining them. A lot of people said that about MESA. It's been a rough road for those guys. I might think twice about that philosophy. Regionals are no longer stepping stones. Most people will be stuck in the current airline they work for. Unless they find something else to do. I hold no faith in some made up story about Legacy carriers hiring like crazy. And if they do it will be from the top of the group while you at the bottom looking for a fast transition will have to wait for the next wave in 15 to 20 years.

GoJet is rumored to be hiring off the street Captains - so go there. Tell them about being a WCW and how great Branded was. The rest of us are sick of hearing about it EVERY DAMN LEG!!!!!!

Look I was just stating my opinion, which I knew would not be shared by others. There is no need to start talking trash and I am trying to avoid that but since you started it I'll join in: The west coast Xjt people are sick of you IAH toolboxes acting like your base is the center if the universe. Get over yourself, loser.