You have to be a cool SJS guy to get to the big leagues son. Dem turbineprops won't getcha anywhere.

People are moving on to the majors from both airplanes right now.

You have to be a cool SJS guy to get to the big leagues son. Dem turbineprops won't getcha anywhere.


Actually, all that matters is PIC Turbine. A buddy of mine is in new hire class with Alaska straight out of the Brasilia

CAL & SWA hire turboprop-only guys, but some CRJ time is generally helpful, especially with other airlines. A certain percentage of pilots cannot make the transition to glass-cockpit turbojet, so the RJ background shows that you can do that.

Ok, just to clarify: are the upgrade requirements the same for the EMB and the CRJ? I understand the 2500tt/1000crew thing, but is that for both planes? Thanks.

Yes, the same. You can theoretically upgrade in the RJ at 2500tt.

Does anyone know when the next interviews are going to be? I have had my stuff walked in about 3 weeks ago. From all the talk about the amount of hiring they are doing I hope to hear something really soon.

Ok, thanks...and one more question, and then I'll leave you alone! Are they running upgrade classes every month? More than one a month? Or just every now and then?

Thanks, and I hope to see you in Skywest some day.

Since April and throughout the end of the year, 30-40 new captains every month. RJ upgrades have been awarded into October already. These classes are 70 pilots with 35 captains paired up with 35 first officers. The majority of the FO positions are newhires. HR is currently in the process of awarding the next EMB upgrade class in August. RJ classes seem to be going every 3 weeks and EMB once a month. 2260 pilots on the seniority list now. Junior EMB CA at about 1700 on the list and RJ CA at 1400.

We didn't really have any training going on between 12/05 and 3/06. Large amount of attrition going on right now. Additionally, increased block hours from Delta (and probably UA, but I'm not sure) and more aircraft on the way has fueled the demand for more pilots.

I really have only 2 more questions, and then there just aren't possibly anymore to ask. Thanks again for everyone's help. Regarding Skywest:

1. Do you have duty or trip rigs at all? What about for reserve days? Is there a minimum of pay on a reserve day if they use you? What about airport or ready reserve?

2. How long are your trips? Some airlines build trips no more than 4 days long, per contracts or whatever. In your lines, I suppose you have 1 day trips, 2 day trips, etc. Is there a maximum? Do you also get 1 full day off after 6 days of work?

I guess those were multiple part questions. I'm done...seriously. Thanks!