I'm looking for some objective advice. I am soon to retire from the military and pursue a flying career. I've been hired by both Pinnacle (Colgan) and Republic. There are pros and cons to both companies, and I was hoping someone with some experience in the industry could give me an honest assessment. I know every company has it's drawbacks and there is always going to be something to complain about. I have no experience in the industry, so any insight would help. Ideally from someone who flies or has flown with either/both. I know Colgan starting pay is a bit higher, but what about reserve time, upgrade time, benefits, turboprop vs. jet, etc.? I realize there's no set answer to some of this, but I would appreciate the broad overview. Thanks.

Do you happen to live in a base for either company? That can make the quality of life thing much better

Right now the upgrade at Pinnacolaba (Colgan) will be a LONG time (5-7 years minimum) for any new hire. We have a mediocre contract (when compared to the good ones) and are going through a financial downswing currently. Don't pay attention to all the rumors you see on here regarding "what's going to happen" here because the truth is no one knows anything yet.

I don't know much about Republic.

Just keep in mind that things can change quickly in this industry and 1-2 years from now everything could be different.

Lots of people will probably tell you to go to Republic because Pinnacolaba could furlough in the not too distant future. But if you live in or near a base for one of the airlines that would be HUGE for QOL.

Good luck with your decision!!

Side note: being former military did you not acquire enough time to go straight to a major (should they be hiring)?

Why not Expressjet, Compass, Skywest or Air Wisky? All hiring and all are in good shape.

XJT & ASA are about to go through a big mess. Colgan has been through that mess and is hiring 250 this year. Possible different mess at Colgan now. Republic is a mess. SKYW ok. Air Wisconsin..? I'd go where you don't have to commute.

I have enough time to go to a major, but it isn't recent. I've been out of the cockpit for about 6 years, so I'm going to have to go somewhere to get some time before the majors will give me a shot. I did apply to SWA and JetBlue, but as expected, they didn't call.

Ah. I'm with ya now.

Well good luck to you! I hope whatever decision you make works out well for you in the long run

Im just curious of why you think XJT is about to go through a
mess. Colgan is suppose to do 250? We are projected to do at least 32 new hires a month for the year. We also have 5 135's coming back in line in april in ewr. Im confused?

Probably means the list merge between XJT and ASA.

I think your integration/contract is going to be prolonged and difficult.