I just finished IOE and was expecting to be stuck in Chicago for the next few months (which I was fine with) but I was unexpectedly awarded SFO starting in October. Trying to put some plans together and was wondering how long I should expect to sit reserve there. Also any tips or recommendations for a SoCal commuter would be welcome.

Thanks!

Out of curiosity are you CRJ or ERJ

Congrats!!

Crossing fingers for SAN for ya!

Post history said ERJ


OP you can probably get an estimate by comparing the last line holder (or composite) and see what their seniority # is and see where you are relative to them along with the PBS bid transparency and bid information to get an idea of the targeted line holders. But I don't know anything about the ERJ side and how quick it moves. I'd estimate 5 months of reserve. I'm CRJ and got SFO in july and only moved up two spots. Also got in right before they added 15 FOs and i'm just now getting a line after 5 months of flying.

Looks like the most junior line holder was an early 2019 hire. With things starting to move out there again, I'd guess your time on reserve might be less than 6 months.

Forgive my ignorance but would it be possible after passing the interview to delay your start date until the base you requested became available?

No. You don't get a seniority number until you start training. Everything runs on seniority unfortunately.

Base availability is all over the place. Might as well just suck it up and be the guinea pig for a few months.

So you basically hope for a 5 day trip whilst being based somewhere you didn't request so you can commute?

Somewhat. Well what base do you want?
There aren't really any 5 day trips. Reserve you will get lucky if you're called for a 3 day. Reserve can either start at 4am or 9am and you have two hours to get to the airport. But in ORD or DTW, MSP, you have a high chance of getting used a lot on reserve. In class you'll list out your most desired base to the least wanted.

Thanks for the info. I'd be looking for a DEN base for the long term.