Paok

What would you do? Staring class soon w Delta and just invited to start selection process at UAL. I live local to NYC, closer to Newark (much closer). Always wanted UAL but they never called. Is it better to turn down the process now to not burn a bridge or go through the selection process and potentially turn down the job? I know guys that burned bridges pre 9/11 and really hurt them later to try and get on with another airline. Don't want to do that. Some reasons I would chose UAL over Delta, closer base to home, more wide bodies, seems like a better contract than DAL, wife works at DAL (too many eggs in one basket?) uniforms, hotels, no training pay, no MD88.... any input? Feeling very fortunate, been waiting for UAL forever but now have an upcoming Delta class! How far out is UAL interviewing and holding classes? I will start mid Nov-early Dec with Delta. I will continue with the process as I currently don't have a bad/seniority number at a major. I wish UAL called first it would be so easy!

cadetdrivr

Never turn down a job from either DAL or UAL if they are your shortlist. There is no assuarance that the other one will offer an interview or job. Ever.

pilotgolfer

If you will be driving to work with either choice...you can't go wrong. There are some good reasons to go through the process with United. If you are nearby Newark, you are really gonna have an easy time on reserve...and as a line holder for as long as you live there. The relative movement at United could be a plus...or you can go be an MD88 captain and wear a double breasted jacket in JFK and LGA.

I think diversification is a much broader issue to consider. I would not base your decision on short term differences like new hire hotels or training pay. That's a blip on the radar in a 30 year career.

trustbutverify

Hey, don't knock it till you try it. Those double breasted horse blankets might be outdated, but at least they're uncomfortable.

Paok

I have a job at Delta and a potential interview at UAL

ufgatorpilot

UAL email as in the link for the Hogan? Take the test and see how it goes. That could help make the decision for you. On the other hand, I think it helps to take the Hogan and not have as much pressure. When I took it, I already had a job offer at AA, which was my #1 choice...so I just answered the questions honestly and didn't care much whether I passed it. As it turned out, it took AA so long to put me into class that I had already finished IOE at UAL. I decided to stay at UAL, and it's been a great fit for me so I'm glad things turned out how they did.

RSRVWINDSURFR

You just have to ask yourself: If United gives me the job to start in early spring, would I leave Delta? Contracts are comparable. I don't think the wife working at DL would be an issue. If DL was in trouble, chances are UA would be as well. Driving across NYC for your entire career would suck. Is international wide body flying a priority for you? Or a quick upgrade?

I think either would be a great decision, but I wouldn't pursue UA Unless you're pretty sure you'd leave DL for a UA class.

Otters

What I would suggest is reading all the other posts on this exact same subject.

Jodi

No question in my mind. Grab the Delta job; it's like hitting the lottery right now.

MasterOfPuppets

You think so huh???

I disagree but everyone has their own opinion. If I lived closer to EWR than LGA/JFK United would be a no brainer. The grass is not greener on the other side for me, United is my #1 choice and if I had it to do all over again I would not change a thing. United is in a great position now for the future.