You and Cacti missed my point.

Agreed, once the Major pilot gets going its no comparison to even the best RJ pay. Maybe in shouldn't have even mentioned that earlier.

The point is there are some good RJ airlines out there. Someone compared RJ shops to prisons. I disagree. While I've never been to prison, I can tell you doing 20 years at SkyWest would be a pretty good gig, if it lasted. I suspect SkyWest will be one of the last RJ airlines standing, but suspect most guys would still want to move on. This is because they want more pay and retirement, sure... And new destinations and equipment. Few would leave because its "like a prison".

To the newbies in this industry reading these rants, just know some people have had bad experiences at crap airlines and somehow have made it a point to convince everyone else that only Boeing/Bus flying is rewarding and worthwhile. But know this, your first year as Capt you'll come close to(or more than)$85k and work with happy people who enjoy their jobs. If you're bitter, you probably won't fit in at SkyWest.

 

The problem is that SKW won't be able to continue with the happy pay rates. SKW was above most before we started taking cuts, now SKW is very high compared to everyone else. It's a good place to work but sadly we know United, American, Alaska, Delta and US Airways will come looking for cheaper feed. SKW has the most 50 seaters and the highest pay.. Management doesn't like either of them. I hope you guys it works out for all of you, I would love for SKW to be filled with lifers who are happy not competing with the rest of us for the mainline gigs

 

I'd rather be at the bottom of any major airline seniority list than senior at any regional. I'm going on my 3rd year at SkyWest, and have few complaints. But I'm ready to move on, as I realize their time will soon come.

The only lifer argument that makes sense is if you are so close to 65 and on the high end of the payacale that you won't make up the lost income. But SkyWest overall has a junior pilot group, so that's an uncommon situation.

 

I think you're gonna see most (80%+) moving on. I also think SkyWest, whatever shape or size, will be near the top with employee moral because of work rules and pay. This is not the same as saying no cuts or adjustments.

 

If you're bitter, you probably won't fit anywhere.

 

Justamusshroom, I get and accept your point. I will admit the prison comparison was dramatic and not exactly accurate of course but being a fan of economics and my field of study in college, I'm drawn to observing how people make decisions. A rational, intelligent person will make a logical decision to work towards the most rewarding offer barring any restrictions. The fact that the regional model sets up a low pay dynamic, at least for the first few years (22/hr? Ouch to those with no savings) of course takes in to account that people often have almost no other choice so must sacrifice and yes industry economics also perpetuate that model. I am in total agreement with you that skywest would be a far better place to work than most if not all other regionals from what I've read here and heard personally but it really becomes a qualitative "I fear restarting in this industry" issue rather than simple quantitative cost benefit, barring being almost 65. People absolutely should be happy and make the most of any situation but the fact that so many people in the regional industry now focus on quality of life shows the poor treatment and prolonged stagnation in the past decade has worn many down. The term "lifer" in the regional industry has a negative tint to it on both the corporate and pilot level but I think it should not, and kudos to those who make a decision either way and stay the course with a good attitude, professional discipline and dedication to living their personal dream. I do think we will all be surprised how many move on after there is a readjustment to a different norm instead of bracing for the stagnation and fear of perpetual instability.

 

I think more than many realize, there are many people not in the cockpit very thoroughly planning for their airline's future and the realities of the upcoming movement and introduction to options for an unfettered pilot (no DUI, no arrests, record of good training) will see some interesting responses to entice new or current employees. Skywest has a track record of treating its staff with dignity and fairness so I at least hope they continue to do so and will be rewarded handsomely for that. Others have the opposite track record and I think people, when not trapped by lack of options, will pull chocks in a heart beat and they will have to adapt or wilt. Everyone here is looking at a very great future I hope they know.

 

Cacti, what do you do right now?

 

Financial industry, used to be a military officer/ pilot, an looking in to getting in the cockpit again sinc it is a great profession , this crude pay talk aside

 

I really like what everyone has to say about Skywest- so digging for more , aka due diligence