Knowing what you are getting into is much better than being surprised when you get here.

 

Now I am confused. I know some people here would know better than others but I am now hearing that Mesaba "might" not get the 900s at all. This is somewhat of a predicament because in addition to my other decision making dilemma, I might be interviewing for something that may not even happen. I know that sounds pretentious and egotistical but that is not my intent. I am just trying to sort out a major career shift and I want to make sure I have all the facts. We're all just lucky to be able to have a choice in jobs these days! If anyone has any insight, I'd sure appreciate it.

 

Now I am confused. I know some people here would know better than others but I am now hearing that Mesaba "might" not get the 900s at all. This is somewhat of a predicament because in addition to my other decision making dilemma, I might be interviewing for something that may not even happen. I know that sounds pretentious and egotistical but that is not my intent. I am just trying to sort out a major career shift and I want to make sure I have all the facts. We're all just lucky to be able to have a choice in jobs these days! If anyone has any insight, I'd sure appreciate it.

 

FROM RJ85FO in another post today:

"So here is the thing. The 900's are coming. A minor issue with the NWA MEC but that is being worked. 50 Furloughs are recalled. The next vacancy is expected in a couple of weeks which should recall the rest (that are coming back). Hiring will begin after that. Mesaba is actively recruiting and interviewing, but they are not "hiring" unless into a pool as of right now. The class with the furlough recalls will begin in April. I wouldn't expect new hire classes until end of May or June."

Other then "wishful thinking" in a few posts, where did you "hear" that Mesaba "might" not get the 900s ?

 

Well, I take the "rumors" with a grain of salt...I've been in this industry long enough to know that rumors are always abundant. I think I saw a comment to that effect (re: not getting the 900s anymore) in another forum thread. I also heard it from another regional guy (of course). Trust me, it is not wishful thinking on my part...I'd love to see Mesaba, NWA, Compass, etc. succeed. I just have a future to think about.

 

The wishful thinking was expressed by a few "other regional airline" crew members. There's an old addage, "Indecision is the key to flexibility." The decision to apply is not a decision to leave your present employment. You still have options. Listen to what RJ85FO has to say; it's the straight word. APPLY - when you get the call, then decide.

 

Friday's company memo said that the CRJ900 training manuals and materials were submitted to the FAA for approval last week. As soon as the course is approved, training can begin. First class (10 capt, 10 f/o) is scheduled for April 2, 2007.

 

Well, I did get an interview call but was also told that there was no guarantee that I was interviewing for the 900. I understand this but when I asked how aircraft assignment was determined, I was told it would be partially based on background, experience, etc. I'm not sure what this means...if I have a fair bit of jet time (inlcuding jet PIC), do I have a decent chance of being offered (if the interview goes well) a position on the 900?

 

There are no guarantees here. It really depends on the need at the time you are offered a class. It could be that your whole class goes to the CRJ it could be 50/50 or you could be in a whole class of SF3 FO's. There is just no way to tell now, how it will play out then.

I guess you have to comtemplate what it is you really want. If you are looking for 121 JET experience, Mesaba might not be the best choice since there is the possibility you could get the Saab. If you are placed in the Saab as a new hire, you will be equipment locked until upgrade or 3 years have passed whichever comes first. That is just the way the contract is written.

Applying at Pinnacle will guarantee you a jet and the same choice of bases. RAH will guarentee you a jet but with a wider selection of domiciles.

You are the best judge of your own particular situation. As much as I would like to see experienced pilots come join the rank and file here, I simply cannot in good faith try and sell you on the company by assuring you that the jet is what you will get.

 

I just noticed that RJ85FO answered. Mine becomes ( as the doctor says) a second opinion.

RJ85FO is much more qualified to answer than I am.

My advice - think long term. Mesaba is ON THE WAY UP. Morale is good, exciting things are happening. The contract issues are settled. Expansion (Hiring) will be explosive. I've made predictions on other posts that I stick with - they will be getting more then the 36 CRJ900s on order (perhaps more then the two 500s they had) and possibly ERJs (Compass). Running three airlines (Mesaba / Compass /NWA) requires tooo much top heavy management $$$$$$. Todays economy demands efficiency in order to profit.

As Mesaba and Compass becomes "blended with NWA" the lines will blur as will the terms major / regional. A pilot shortage will require companies like NWA to "bank" groups of pilots and institute flow through.

Being among the first 50-100 Mesaba new hires will give you a seniority number in the high 500s or low 600s with the eventual total at 900+. I think more if they get additional CRJs or the ERJs. Lets assume they do and have 1200-1400 pilots in two years. With industry dynamics, Mesaba Captains will be moving to NWA or other majors; the opportunities to upgrade will be great.

My advice - if you want a career go to Mesaba NOW and take whatever airplane you get. With all your jet time, I would say a CRJ would be the logical place to put you. If you want to play "bionic ping ball ball in a box" (all energy and no direction) bouncing from one flying job to another, it's hard to establish a flying career.