Lostboys97

While this statement is accurate, the opening/closing of bases on a whim(or because it’s cheaper) was a major subject during the “culture change” initiative of 2013-14. I also remember hearing random talk during the bk process of the codeshares not supporting the opening of anymore outstation bases or bases without viability. It would seem like that’s why it’s taken so long to open an IAH, because they want to make sure it’s got a long term viability.
I don’t think IAH is far enough west to help Republic’s recruiting efforts, but it is still RAH, who’s afraid of the mountains. Or maybe they just want to poach Mesa employees.

PC12Junkie

I’ve been considering coming over to the regionals for a while and I live in Houston. Now finally something that looks better than Mesa and Express Jet. I’m sure it may turn into a senior base quickly, but would love the opportunity to at least bid for it as a home base.

Stuff11

A quick history lesson.... Back in December of 2013, a coo was on the rise. ExpressJet had become the first regional to slam down the gauntlet and declare a resounding NO to concessions. Shortly there after Envoy and Republic followed suit. Three of the big 4 of regionals, have now put their foot down and said they will take no less. As we all know, SkyWest is the 4th and they are non regional so they just stood there with poms poms.

In the 4 years since then, Envoy was strong armed by American and was forced into concessions or be shut down. RAH filed for bankruptcy and was also forced into concessions. They were then bailed out of bankruptcy by Delta. (see Pinnacle air circa 2012 for more fun facts on that). Since December 2013, the line flying pilots of ExpressJet have not taken a cent in concessions and a new contract should be out for a vote shortly. Skywest, being non union, have piggy backed off of ExpressJet's gains. Kind of like the naggy little sister that wants everything her big sister has.

Now I understand why Mesa is off the table, but why ExpressJet? And if you answer "Because they're closing down" I will know you have never taken a college business course before because nothing could be farther from the truth.

Tpinks

What are you smoking? Because your history on republic is off...

Our BK was a shame Bk to get rid of excess aircraft and to renegotiate our CPAs to pay higher rates. Delta did not save us. The 100 million DIP financing was only during the BK itself, upon exiting it was to be repaid. Secondly, Republic went into BK as a profitable airline with I believe over 200 million in liquid assets. We came out of BK as an even more profitable airline.

There were no concessions made during the BK, AT ALL.

PC12Junkie

I guess the reason I wasn’t considering Express Jet is how long it takes to make Captain. I have to support a family of four so upgrade times are important as well as the health/benefit package rates as well. Mesa’s healthcare is just as expensive as the market exchange and my buddy at Republic is going to send his health benefits to me as soon as he gets off vacation so I can see their costs as well.

chrisreedrules

I think if IAH is a must for you then Republic is the clear choice for many reasons.

PC12Junkie

My curiosity is how much I could make on the new FO pay scale. I know the rates and 12 days off a month sounds nice, but I would need to pick up those “red flag” trips to make extra money. Do you think an FO realistically can get into the 70’s with picking up extra time? Am I just way out of league here on getting that high?
I’m currently making almost 80k flying a Pilatus(8 days off a month)but want to get back into jet flying.

Tpinks

Is 70k possible, yes if you know how to game the system. Will it be likely in IAH, doubt it. Realistically, take 1000 times your hourly rate and that is what you will make.

Don't count on red flag at republic, yes we have it, but there is nothing in our contract that requires the company to flag a trip. I myself have never seen a trip flagged. When they are extremely desperate, then they call and offer it over the phone.

chrisreedrules

$70,000+ can be tough anywhere as a first year regional FO. Not impossible, but tough.

ORD170

Don’t plan on red flag pay at Republic. I saw it twice after March 2016. I lived in base the last year I was at Republic, and never got called. Red flag is not all over time. The company can choose when and if they offer a premium. From my experience it’s pretty rare, because everyone picks up OT at straight pay. Good luck.