Think of ORD as the holding pad for new pilots / reserves. It is generally easier to get people to move out west than the other way around. So there is an artificially high reserve count in ORD as compared to other bases.

I haven't checked out the details but there may be a case where an ORD reserve FO could hold a composite line out west but for whatever reason isn't willing to transfer (most likely he or she is local to ORD).

When you get to the top 80-100 on each list are local to ORD. So unless they switch airframes or leave, there isn't much movement

That must be why there is only a 1 year seat lock on Ejet FO's. If an FO wants to hold a line and unhappy with being on reserve, they can switch to the CRJ (rather than leave) after one year.

If this is a dumb question, I apologize, but I am just getting back into the swing of all things aviation...

Are all new hires going to the Ejet and therefore ORD, or are some new hires going CRJ?

Most new hires are going CRJ and getting DTW or ORD out of training. About 1/3rd of new hires are going E175 and lately they have been getting ORD. A few months ago, new hires were getting LAX and SFO. Things change month to month.

I live in the Seattle area and would much prefer the west I am planning on asking for the ERJ as I believe that would increase my chances of getting SEA or at least a doable commute. I own a home here and my spouse works full time for the same company for many years.

Do you all think this a good plan?

If you want SEA, then I would ask for the E175.

I assume CRJ if you want FAT?

Yes. New vacancy shows openings in FAT believe it or not.. I believe crews switched to the 175 and opened FAT up

Thanks that is what I thought