If you applied to Skywest through airlineapps.com, there is a spot on one of the first pages that asks for your available date.

 

It's a regional. Seniority is not everything at a temporary gig. He'll probably work there less than 4 years.

 

Nope, I applied through OO's website. There was no field for an available date, to my recollection. And, at the time of my application and interview, I had no commitments preventing me from starting training immediately.

The very first thing on OO's Pilot Performance Agreement says "I will not accept a training assignment that I do not fully intend to complete without interruption. While certain life events cannot be foreseen, I will not accept an assignment when events known to me could interrupt a training course." I signed that, and I certainly intend to stand by it. I would never accept a class date with another obligation.

Had OO offered me the job right out of the interview, I would have accepted it immediately and declined the other contract. However, they did not.

I really, really want to fly for them; I was deeply impressed by everyone I met, and a perusal of these forums indicates the high regard that most of us pilots hold for OO, and their strong position in the industry. But given Skywest's culture and ethos, I doubt they would want to hire someone who's willing to abrogate a contract they'd just signed in order to start at the first available class.

Anyhow we'll see how it goes. I'm already working things out so I can hopefully end my other contract early, without breaking its terms.

 

Well, as it turned out, I worried for no reason. Just got the call from OO with an offer I explained my situation and was told "No problem, just check in with us closer to the time, we'll put down here that you are available in September. Welcome to the team."

Really cool people over there. So far I have been entirely impressed with OO's operation.

 

I was a pilot at republic. I left after 4.5 years as an FO. Pilots hired just 6 months prior to my DOH were upgraded during my 2nd year of employment. My DOH group upgraded in year 7.

I am not suggesting you should disregard obligations in your personal life just to get a seniority number. Just giving you a real life example of what 6 months can do when it comes to working at a union shop.

 

And that is what folk though back in 2001 also.

If at all possible (meaning imminent death of someone), never delay a class date.

 

Valid point.

Do what you think is best knowing that six months in this industry can mean the difference between being a new hire at a major and a furloughed FO. This industry is full of compromises: good job never home versus lower wages home every night.

I bailed when I had to take care of a relative with brain cancer. I made a choice that will mean I earn less, but being there for her is more important than monetary gain. You need to decide what is best for you financially and morally.

 

Good points, all. But if I explained in detail why I'm delaying, I think 99% of you would agree with my decision.

Without going into a long story, not only would I be abrogating a contract, but three colleagues of mine would lose their jobs if I went to the airlines before September. I can't do that. It's not right.