Not a troll just trying to figure out what role the union will play in my aviation career. I grew up in a mixed family home. My mom was union and my dad was management (different companies). If I listened to my mother she would have me believe that a union is the best thing since sliced bread. But if I listened to my dad he would say they are the scourge of the earth. Twice my mom went on strike, while growing up and those were some of the most awkward times in my house. There were days i didnt want to go home.

My intent is to find out the benefits of working for unionized and non-unionized groups.

Honestly. In the case of the regional state were in right now. Nothing.. (Actualy a magazine and a small amount of money taken each check...)
Go to a airline that fits your "lifestyle" (were you live, were you want to fly) enjoy your 5 years there (as everyone will have a chance at the majors the next 10 years). And move on..

Absolutely no difference at the regional level. I would not choose a regional based on union or lack of union. Choose based on geography, expected career progression, and QOL/culture (there's some trade space between those three).

I think you have your answer right there ...

Did some digging and SAPA has agreed in a new policy without really telling us last March. If you manipulate your bid with Golden/Vacation days to force PBS to award under 75 hours you're considered a composite line holder and they will add open time or reserve days to your schedule to bring you up to 75. It doesn't matter what your seniority is. So I'm going to have to add a trip to my schedule.

Thanks SAPA!!

I knew some were "abusing" that but these days if you can actually hold vacation on that day and actually have the vacation bank I don't see what the deal is.
What a dumb thing to give away.

it's absolutely asinine.

there's a way I know where I can get a whole month off on vacation for 37.5 hours of vacation bank. This would normally pay out at 75 guarantee so I get a ton of free money right? They make the rules I break them.

Well now if you get caught doing that they will just add reserve days to screw you.

Which is bogus. If you don't like the game you can't just unilaterally change the rules. UNION.

Let's not forget that preassignments on PBS were a huge concession to begin with.

Yes you should get paid more for not working or being available, makes sense...

If they wanted to close the loophole, then they should just pay you what you were awarded. They shouldn't force days on your line just to bring you up. If you want to make up that time, then you just pick up something. But we can't have people picking up other people's trips, now can we.

As far as I know it has to be awarded at least above 58 otherwise you'd be considered part time and would lose health benefits