Quote:
Originally Posted by Vern
I am a mid-career corporate Fortune 500 pilot looking to change things up a bit. I’ve got a dream job, but my family and I want to move to Columbus OH to be closer to family and job opportunities for my wife. I’m looking for anyone flying for Republic (especially someone based in CMH) that would be willing to take some time to PM me regarding what my life would look like if we made this move.
Is it reasonable to think I could make a decent wage and be home 20+ nights a month? Does the company put you up in nice places while on the road? What is the culture like and how easy is it to move trips (add/drop) and pick up incentived trips for extra money. My knowledge of 121 life is limited. Thanks in advance
Columbus is a great city with many businesses headquartered here. Cost of living and property taxes unfortunately are really starting to climb, but the school system in the suburbs tends to be above above average, city of Columbus schools, not so much. I can't speak to what Republic is like, but I'm sure someone will chime in. I fly for another wholly owned in Dayton.
As for making the cross over to 121, I hAve done that as well. I will say there is a big difference in training, and procedures but if you have type rating's and jet time it shouldn't be to difficult. You'll have to get used to being a number, as that is all you are, you are a labor input now, and really not viewed as anything special. You are gonna stay in some dumps with the airlines as everything is based on cost. You don't get to keep points, and the hotels tend to treat airline crews like nothing special. No more rental car's, the hotel shuttle is limited in where they will take you, and often you'll be eating at whatever restaurant is within walking distance. Your perdeim is what you'll use for food, and many crewmembers by crew lunch boxes and bring there food to save cost, and eat little more healthy.
If you are coming from a fortune 500, be ready for a big hit in the wallet. You may after a few years get back close to what you were making. Have you thought about netjets? They are headquartered in Columbus, and you can be home based, pretty much live where ever you want. I will say the one positive about 121, is that you have a schedule, and no one will call you on your days off. I do like 121, but there are many things I miss about flying corporate.
Good luck.