For those thinking of applying...or that already have.. If you haven't done it yet, get the ATP written done. It may become a requirement for applying in the near future.

I believe it has already been a requirement for some time now...

Yep, Nevermind.

Just got word that SkyWest will begin issuing ATPs to FOs beginning in April. Their goal is to have every FO ATP rated by July 2013. I'm assuming this will mean that the hiring mins. will jump up to ATP mins.

Given the rapidly shrinking pool of willing and qualified candidates, why would they limit their access until their hand is forced?

I don't think SkyWest will require an ATP to start until they absolutely have to. Maybe it just means new guys will get an ATP during initial if they don't already have one.

Wouldn't the new hires have to meet ATP minimums in order for that to happen? It sounds to me like SkyWest is taking HB5900 very seriously and at some point between now and July 2013 the hiring minimums will be increased to ATP minimums unless HB5900 is amended.

Golden Bear has the right of it. We're hurting for guys as it is. I wish the new hires coming online were ATPs.

I think a lot of airlines are taking HR5900 seriously. I'm kind of surprised.

The retirements looking, do you guys see the upgrade at SkyWest dropping to a reasonable level? (3-4 years?) It's hard to gauge if the senior guys will leave for Delta, Southwest, etc or stay put.

That made me laugh.....