Commuting JAX>MCI
 

Does anyone have any advice on commuting from JAX to MCI and back? Trying to figure out how to maximize my time with my family.

Uh yeah, don't do it. That sounds ridiculous.

What's making you want to be based at MCI? I don't see any non-stop flights at all between those two cities. IMO you'd be much better off commuting to DCA. 4 non-stop flights a day, and 3 of them are Republic (a.k.a. you'll have better priority). Plus, it's much closer.

I don't want to be based there but I am stuck there for at least the month of May. But I have to commute from JAX for military purposes. I actually put my bids in for DCA and didn't get it. Trying to keep a positive attitude about it but this is sounding more and more impossible as I ask around.

That's interesting... I know of 5 FO's on the bottom of the DCA list that are still in training, and it sounds like you're already flying, so I'm really curious as to why you weren't awarded DCA. I guess the only option is to keep that bid active until you get it, and just deal with a 2-leg commute in the meantime.

How did you get “stuck” in MCI? I didn't think anybody had been assigned that base out of training in quite a while?

I'm right out of training. They said they didn't have enough people there so that's where I'm going. I was just looking for the best way to get there because I'm unfamiliar with commuting.

It appears there are a few American flights (through CLT), and several on Delta. Trouble with Delta is you'll have to go through Atlanta, and there's a whole lot of Delta employees non-revving to/from Atlanta. It's really not going to be a pleasant experience I'm afraid. You might also try jumpseating on Southwest, as there are a few flights per day with stops in either ATL or BNA.

I would put a standing bid in for DCA, LGA, and PHL just to get out of MCI as soon as possible.

Feel free to PM me if you need any more specific info. You're actually ahead of me in seniority, but I've spent a ton of time figuring this stuff out for my own commute I'm going to have to start making in a month or so.

You will definitely have to do two legs to get there. Your safest and most reliable bet would be JAX-DCA-MCI or JAX-IAH-MCI. Both of those options put you on company metal for both legs. Via DCA you're on the American side so they will clear you for a seat before the D1's which is incredibly helpful. Via IAH you will be on the United side and you'll get SA0X priority which will put you at the top of the standby list (below UAL vacation pass travelers). With both options you are guaranteed the cockpit jumpseat assuming there aren't any other Republic pilots commuting.

This is the best advice right here. While not ideal, this will make it doable. Unfortunately, a two-leg commute is certainly going to eat into your days off at home. Don’t get too discouraged though, you should be able to get DCA fairly quickly.

Okay. I appreciate the help guys. Thank you.