ExpressJet Bases????? Cleveland??

[PhilM]

I'll be starting with XJT soon and was wondering if anyone knows the pros and cons of being based in Cleveland? Also, anyone who would like to share their recent training experiences would be helpful. Any suggestions before starting training? Thanks!

 

[Fly2Scuba]

Clevelands a terrible base for the most part. Very senior base because of cutbacks in frequency to many routes over the past couple years especially during the middle of the week; thus making the lines horrible compared to other bases. That city needs an extreme makeover as it has suffered more than most from the decline of manufacturing jobs. It's industrial, chronically overcast during the winter, and basically a smaller, uglier version of Detroit.

 

[prattzl]

I have onlyl been a XJT for a short time, but from what I hear, CLE is a stagnant base for the most part. There are some Fos in CLE upgrading to CA in IAH, and that will open some spots. But, unlike EWR and IAH there aren't many new routes. Also, reserve tends to be quite a bit longer. That being said, there are a lot of people that take CLE because they are from there and like it. Everyone right now getting hired is mostly getting assigned EWR or CLE. Some are getting IAH but rarely.

 

[Captain X]

What the other guys have said regarding the decay/stagnation of flying for CLE is correct. Many months, flying is shifted from either EWR or IAH to "beef up" the productivity for the CLE base. This means you may not fly much on reserve and may play the "I'm a lineholder, I'm not a lineholder" game.

All 3 bases have their ups and downs. If you want to go to CLE, you will probably get it. Most new-hires end up in either EWR or CLE but are able to hold IAH shortly thereafter.

There are good areas to crashpad or get an apartment in CLE both Northeast and South of the airport.

The RTA train runs straight into the airport and if you have a place Northeast of the field the train runs up thru downtown and each stop has busses at it to make a "lateral" connection. http://www.gcrta.org/pdfs/maps/sysmapinside04.pdf

If you go south, you'll probably need a car.

CLE has income-based rent controls so if you get a crashpad or apartment your salary will actually be an "advantage."

If you like "city life," try the National Terminal Warehouse Apartments in downtown CLE. It is right near all 3 stadiums, The Rock Hall, a decent mall and movie theater, quick transportation to the airport (about 25 minutes), restaurants, bars, etc. The area is a little more expensive, but there is lots to do if you like to go out.

If you like the "urban life" try south of the aiport. A lot of people used to get apartments at the Polo Club in Strongsville, OH. It is right by a mall. There are other restaurants, etc. right around there as well.

If I remember correctly, both CLE and EWR have a State Income Tax, where IAH doesn't (offset by higher property taxes). I believe some parts surrounding CLE also have Municipal Income Taxes so you may wanna check on that.

Cost of livng in CLE is comparable to IAH for the most part but I'm not sure if the property taxes rival those in the Houston area . EWR, of course, is more expensive if you stay close to the greater NYC area so many people move out into bordering PA or "cheaper" parts of NJ or NY. Many also commute to EWR.

As far as training is concerned, learn your limitations and immediate action items down cold. The training program here is first class and the instructors are all great people. Just pay attention and have a great attitude and you will do fine.

 

[rattler]

Ok, enough CLE bashing. First of all, everything about the lines, and movement issues is true. And CLE does have a winter "PermiCast", that's true too.

But if you live downtown CLE really does rock. I am currently EWR based because of the above mentioned reasons, but I lived in CLE for about a year. I highly recomend the National Terminal Warehouse Apartments. Rent is cheap, I paid $800 for a very large 2 bedroom. In EWR the same apartment would be around $2000 a month. If you like the bar scene CLE is alot of fun.

If you want the best lines and the cheapest living then IAH is the place. Personally, I can't stand the place, it's just not for me.

 

[TOGA]

All three bases suck. The seniority issues are bad in CLE. ExJet's a great place to work, as long as you don't need to make any money. Welcome aboard, the first round is on me!

 

[prattzl]

C'mon, these hubs are the gems of America. ....right?