The AirTran call

[Hooky2]

Just got a call from Greta for an interview at AirTran. I've seen some gouge, but nothing really fresh. Is it still a nice, get-to know-you, TMAAT process? Any other info about training, new-hire lifestyle (commuting/reserve/upgrade) would be welcome.
Thanks

 

[-9Capt]

Any other info about training, new-hire lifestyle (commuting/reserve/upgrade) would be welcome.
Thanks

Reserve sucks, a lot. As bad as you'll find anywhere. Good thing is you won't be there long.

No commuter policy, call sick or call the CPO and self confess for a slap on the wrist. Only had to do it twice.

Upgrade is running 2.5-3 yrs I believe, many have been bypassing. Why? See reserve comment above

Welcome aboard, besides the hardline management tactics, it's a great place to work.

 

[brainhurts]

What is the call out time on reserve? Also, what is the price of a reasonable crashpad?
Thanks

 

[fletch717]

What is the call out time on reserve? Also, what is the price of a reasonable crashpad?
Thanks

2 hour call, 175.00 and up

 

[Hooky2]

Good info, thanks.
I'm looking for more accurate gouge on working there. The 05-06' stuff from Air Inc. doesn't match with some info on airtran.com. Where's the fresh poop on B-fund, 401(k), etc? Also, is the 717 junior or will new hires get an option?

 

[Phaedrus]

B-fund is 10.5%. New hires get option of 73 or 71 (if 73s are available). Selection order is based on age (oldest to youngest).
I don't have anything to compare work rules to, but I've found that reserve isn't that bad here. Many others think differently.
Overall I've been very pleased with QOL and flexibility of scheduling. Pilot group is generally a good bunch.
Good luck with your interview.

 

[mnboyev]

10 percent Defined Contribution. 10 percent of yearly salary. Plus 401K contribution.. We're currently in contract negotiation .. hoping on modest improvements..

717 More flying available.... better schedule for junior folks.... (for now).

 

[-9Capt]

I don't have anything to compare work rules to, but I've found that reserve isn't that bad here.

That could be the reason.

They will call you during your scheduled reserve period, release you to crew rest and assign you a trip or a new reserve period outside your original availability period, why bother bidding?

They will remove reserve days from your schedule (along with the 3.5hrs pay credit) which makes them short staffed, which then becomes a line pilots problem.

You'll sit ready reserve, at the airport, any airport, in uniform, ready to go, for 6 hours before they assign you a trip.

I don't know how it can get any worse.

 

[Phaedrus]

-9: Good points, all. I especially dislike being assigned outside my original availability period. Agreed; why bother bidding?

 

[Hooky2]

That airport ready sounds harsh. How do they send you to "any airport" to sit ready reserve? Even Eagle won't beat their kids that bad. But... I'm hearing reserve is only for a short time, yes?

Thanks for the other info too. 1 more Q to clarify. do they have matching for the 401k?

 

[tubelcane]

Ive been on reserve since Nov. they said it would be a month or two. Must have not timed it right. Reserve is the same as everywhere else, it blows. You don't sit much though. Ive only not flown 3 days this month. I have 3 more to go this month. Im on reserve again next month too. Should be atleast getting a buildup soon hopefully. The lines look good for days off anyway. Most seem to have atleast 15 days off.

 

[Steeler Fan]

Ive been on reserve since Nov. they said it would be a month or two. Must have not timed it right. Reserve is the same as everywhere else, it blows. You don't sit much though. Ive only not flown 3 days this month. I have 3 more to go this month. Im on reserve again next month too. Should be atleast getting a buildup soon hopefully. The lines look good for days off anyway. Most seem to have atleast 15 days off.

Just take comfort in the Black and Gold!

Go Steelers!!!

 

[Capt. X]

Hooky
Reserves sucks as you probably already know, but look at the bright side, you're interviewing with one of the good companies. Did you try B6?

 

[-9Capt]

Steeler, did you get my PM?

 

[-9Capt]

That airport ready sounds harsh. How do they send you to "any airport" to sit ready reserve? Even Eagle won't beat their kids that bad. But... I'm hearing reserve is only for a short time, yes?

Thanks for the other info too. 1 more Q to clarify. do they have matching for the 401k?

They have to DH you to that airport (4hrs pay) and pay you 4 hrs per day to sit (up to 6hrs sit time per day) plus 24hr a day per diem. Happens almost never.

No match, 10.5 B-fund insted.

 

[CatfishVT9]

Good info, thanks.
I'm looking for more accurate gouge on working there. The 05-06' stuff from Air Inc. doesn't match with some info on airtran.com. Where's the fresh poop on B-fund, 401(k), etc? Also, is the 717 junior or will new hires get an option?

The B-fund is pretty simple. You set up your 401k, and then the company dumps money into it at 10% of what you made for the month. You control the investments, but you don't vest until 5 years. Leave before then and they take it back.

You'll get an option of which aircraft but it varies month to month. The majority will still continue to get the 717,since that's where all the upgrades from FO to CA come from so far. 737 FOs are just about to become eligible for upgrade in the coming months so eventually there should be an increase (a little) in 737 slots.

 

[SkiFishFly]

Possibly little reserve at all

Right now 737 FOs are standing very little reserve. This could change but we are getting another 20 acft this year so I doubt it will change much.
I know several folks who were senior in their class and got build-up lines the first month they could bid after training and a regular line the month after that. If you were junior in class you would probably see 1-2 months of reserve on the 737.
Keep in mind this is what has been happening over the last several months. The next several could be different.

Good Luck.

 

[Hooky2]

Capt X & -9,
I appreciate the input. I'm looking to anyone who can support a career where I can feed my family and enjoy the work and the 'tranny shows promise (and a B-fund!).

Nice Van Halen clip, a bit dated, but Valerie looks nice.
And the Patriots shall rise again.
Cheers

 

[Hooky2]

The B-fund is pretty simple. You set up your 401k, and then the company dumps money into it at 10% of what you made for the month. You control the investments, but you don't vest until 5 years. Leave before then and they take it back.

You'll get an option of which aircraft but it varies month to month. The majority will still continue to get the 717,since that's where all the upgrades from FO to CA come from so far. 737 FOs are just about to become eligible for upgrade in the coming months so eventually there should be an increase (a little) in 737 slots.

Gotcha,
They're dumping money into your 401k, regardless of your contribution. Once you're vested the $$ are yours, and no chance for a rude wake up shortly before retirement, yes? It actually sounds pretty fair.
How's your satisfaction level there?

 

[mnboyev]

Good place to work... Fly your trip, and go home. 6 hr block time/day average.

13-15 Hr layovers... 4 day trips and 3 day trips... Bla Bla Bla...

80-85 'Credit' per month for most...depending on seniority and seat.


Good Luck..to all interviewing... Anybody hear back from HR or get offers ?
How long has it been taking to get the call ?

 

[Jetjockey]

Any stories of second time interviewees? Curious if anyone gets called for a second try.