Originally Posted by RJSAviator76

In 2018, it's 14.2%. In 2019, it's at 15%.

Now, our ProfitSharing plan is actually a qualified retirement account. This enables our more junior pilots to max out their retirement account sooner. I managed to do it last year as a 1-2 year FO who hustled.

I grossed 170k last year. The company put in $24k into my B-fund. I maxed out my personal 401k contribution at 18k. That put me at 42k retirement contribution prior to PS being announced. The PS was 11.37% so in my case, I got $19k in PS, but since IRS 415c limits last year were $54,000 if under 50, I maxed it out my retirement contribution and had an excess of a little over 7k which I took as cash.

Our B-plan/NEC rate was 13.4% last year.



For those with valor license plates, the parking, at least in my domicile is free right at the terminal. Guys using Spot usually pay a little under $5/day after discount, Dallas crews don't pay anything, not sure about other bases.

As for food, we do get international per diem if we fly an international leg, and they actually feed us on those if they're turns. Interestingly, suppose you do an international turn and then press on for 3 more days domestic, you're still getting international per diem the whole trip which is $2.80. Otherwise, it's $2.30. You're right though... we do spend money in terminals. Some guys bring food from home... Are you guys generally happy with your crew meal selection?

Originally Posted by RJSAviator76

Amen to that! But just the mere fact that we are arguing over literally tip money shows what tightwads and cheapskates airline pilots are...

Originally Posted by John Carr

True. As well as the TRUE STATE of how much better we’re off vs not too long ago.

The same guys boasting about all we have are probably the same ones that during the bankruptcy would say “I came here, my buddy went to SW and upgraded in a couple years. I shoulda gone to SW”.

Originally Posted by syd111

Take SWA now and see what happens with UAL down the road if it even happens. Just keep it to yourself while at SWA. JMO

Originally Posted by Guard Police

Do your due diligence as if you were an investor. I wish I had when UAL came calling in '99.

Originally Posted by Guard Police

Do your due diligence as if you were an investor. I wish I had when UAL came calling in '99.

Originally Posted by RJSAviator76

Very true. In the end, we will know if we made the right decision at our retirement party.

Originally Posted by Guard Police

Do your due diligence as if you were an investor. I wish I had when UAL came calling in '99.