Alaska or Southwest?
I'm very fortunate to have secured a CJO with both Alaska and Southwest recently. I'm having a hard time deciding which one to take, and I was wondering if anyone with experience at either company could weigh in. Both seem like solid companies with great culture and plans for growth. Both would required me to make a short commute, but I have family in bases at both airlines and wouldn't be opposed to relocating. As of right now, Southwest is offering a sooner class date so I'm leaning more in that direction.
Some of the pros I see for Alaska:
- New contract, lots of improvements
- All west coast bases, fairly easy commutes from home
- Ability to sit long call reserve from home
Cons for Alaska:
- Training/onboarding backlog
- Younger pilot group, less attrition
Pros for Southwest:
- Great schedule flexibility and pay
- Mostly 3 day trips which I like
- More base choices and better commuter policy
Cons for Southwest:
- I've heard they work you hard
- Recent meltdown
Let me know if there is anything else I'm missing that I should consider. Thanks!