United v. Spirit
01-06-2022 | 08:44 AM
#461
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That is supposing NK figures out the part of the equation that stems attrition. a big if at the moment.
01-07-2022 | 09:44 AM
#462
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So for the 50 stuff y/o dude hypothetically with job offers at both, already set for retirement, QOL and schedule flexibility top priority, and living in SLC (Delta isn't my ideal), what say ye?
Last edited by buttonpusher68; 01-07-2022 at 10:07 AM.
01-07-2022 | 12:43 PM
#463
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01-07-2022 | 04:47 PM
#464
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01-07-2022 | 04:48 PM
#465
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01-09-2022 | 11:18 AM
#467
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And laugh at the great unwashed as they trod past you back to steerage seats while enjoying cheap mimosas and breadsticks
03-10-2023 | 07:11 AM
#468
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This thread is great! Thank you all for your contributions. One decision I'm faced with is whether it is better to commute from ATL with United or to be in base with Spirit. I have 25ish years of airline flying ahead of me, and based on what I've read, I'm leaning toward in base with Spirit. I would appreciate any insight you guys have to offer. Thank you!
03-26-2023 | 09:08 PM
#469
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Open AI response
Hey fellas just looking for some career advice here. Currently at an ACMI, and I'm looking to be better rested and not work as hard for my money. I have a lot of friends and acquaintances at both companies and it's likely that depending upon which path I take I have a decent chance of getting a call at one or both. I don't have 1000 TPIC yet (which UA requires), but I have some jet PIC from my previous corporate life, I meet all the other min req's for both airlines. I'm very close to upgrade at my current employer, but the job is brutal enough as an FO and even more so as a Captain. So I'm trying to make the decision... do I pull every string I have and try to see if I can get an interview with Spirit without the PIC, or should I hold out and get the PIC time and go for a Legacy? Not trying to come off as conceited, neither might call me, just playing the hypotheticals here. Are there any former ACMI guys at NK that can weigh in?
The people I know at Spirit seem really happy, but there's one old acquaintance I heard left for UPS. I've also read on these forums of Spirit pilots leaving for Delta and UA. How does the narrow-body QOL compare between them? I know the pay is less, especially on the high end of the pay scale (comparing the A320 Spirit vs. A320 UA). I know you guys have a lot of good work rules, like min of 4 days between trips etc. Why do pilots leave Spirit for a Legacy? Is it just to eventually fly a widebody and make $300+/hour or is there something else I'm missing? How does the retirement compare?
My personal situation, I'm married with a young family and just turned 40, so the 20 days on the road per month is getting old. I dig flying the widebody, but I've flown all over the planet and would be fine with never flying one again, been there done that. It would really spice up my resume to put widebody PIC on it, but being a junior Captain at my company is probably one of the most brutal jobs in industry right now. I currently live in TX and have lived in FL before. I love both states so basing is mostly irrelevant as I'd be willing to move.
I appreciate your responses. I know there's no "clear" right answer. What are your thoughts?
One last question: What overnights do NK pilots have in South America? Is it only Lima?
The people I know at Spirit seem really happy, but there's one old acquaintance I heard left for UPS. I've also read on these forums of Spirit pilots leaving for Delta and UA. How does the narrow-body QOL compare between them? I know the pay is less, especially on the high end of the pay scale (comparing the A320 Spirit vs. A320 UA). I know you guys have a lot of good work rules, like min of 4 days between trips etc. Why do pilots leave Spirit for a Legacy? Is it just to eventually fly a widebody and make $300+/hour or is there something else I'm missing? How does the retirement compare?
My personal situation, I'm married with a young family and just turned 40, so the 20 days on the road per month is getting old. I dig flying the widebody, but I've flown all over the planet and would be fine with never flying one again, been there done that. It would really spice up my resume to put widebody PIC on it, but being a junior Captain at my company is probably one of the most brutal jobs in industry right now. I currently live in TX and have lived in FL before. I love both states so basing is mostly irrelevant as I'd be willing to move.
I appreciate your responses. I know there's no "clear" right answer. What are your thoughts?
One last question: What overnights do NK pilots have in South America? Is it only Lima?
As an AI language model, I can provide you with some general information that may help you make an informed decision, but ultimately the choice is up to you based on your personal preferences and goals.
Firstly, it's important to note that both Spirit and United are reputable airlines with different operational structures, work cultures, and pilot contracts. Spirit is a low-cost carrier that primarily operates narrow-body aircraft, while United is a full-service airline with a larger fleet, including wide-body aircraft.
In terms of pilot requirements, United requires 1,000 TPIC (total pilot in command time), while Spirit does not have a specific TPIC requirement but prefers applicants with significant PIC time. If you have some jet PIC from your previous corporate life and meet all the other minimum requirements, you may be eligible to apply for both airlines. However, keep in mind that competition for pilot positions can be fierce, and having more experience and qualifications could give you an advantage in the selection process.
Regarding quality of life, both airlines have different work rules and schedules. Spirit, for example, has a minimum of 4 days between trips and offers a maximum of 17 days off per month. United, on the other hand, offers a maximum of 16 days off per month but also has more flexibility in terms of scheduling.
Regarding QOL and work culture, pilots at Spirit generally report being happy, but it's worth noting that some pilots may leave for Legacy airlines like Delta or United for better pay, career advancement opportunities, or other factors. United, as a Legacy airline, offers higher pay and better career advancement opportunities, but also has more competition for promotion.
Regarding retirement benefits, both airlines offer competitive retirement plans, but the details of each plan can vary depending on factors such as seniority, employment status, and other variables.
As for your question about Spirit overnights in South America, it's possible that Spirit may have overnights in other South American cities besides Lima, but it would depend on the airline's current routes and schedules.
Overall, both Spirit and United are reputable airlines with different operational structures and pilot contracts. You will need to weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your personal preferences and goals. It may be helpful to reach out to pilots at both airlines to get their perspective and advice.
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