I have a friend who is starting at Skywest and wants CRJ because of the long wait time for IOE (a several month paid vacation). How long until someone can bid from CRJ FO to ERJ FO? Does that clock start at the end of training, or completion of IOE?

Typically a 2 year seat lock unless the company waives it, but they tend to only waive it for upgrades when they need them. Also, tell them not to count on the "long vacation" since it may or may not occur.

I would pretty much dedicate yourself to getting through training and don't plan to go home. Week 1 of systems you'll bid for your schedule based on class seniority. No guarantees you'll have any breaks. But again... I highly suggest you put 110% of your effort into getting through training. It's no picnic.

How are you gonna tell someone living in base isn't worth it? It absolutely is. It could be years before CRJ bases have the ERJ introduced. If you want ATL or DTW, Endeavor is an option. DFW or PHX, Envoy is an option. As for the west coast CRJ bases, it is absolutely worth it to go to the CRJ to live in base.

Asking with people in the know, as it stands now, if one receives a CJO say in OCT or NOV can one be checkride complete by the end of MAR 2023?
My ATP written expires in MAR 2023 and I really don't want to re-take that thing again.

You took it 5 years ago? ATP written is good for 5 years.

Do you work here? We reopened ATL to take back Endeavor’s flying there.

Honestly didn't realize we took that much flying from them. Doesn't mean that it doesn't have a chance of closing again if the recession hits or we can't staff it.

Anyone knows if skywest pays for hotel? During training? Where is the trading facility located?

Yes and depends if ERJ or CRJ. Ground school for the CRJ is salt lake and ERJ is in Denver