Any AC guys thinking of making the switch?

[Mad Catz]

Hey Guys. I was wondering if anyone would care to comment who is thinking about or has previously made the switch from AC to Westjet. Would love to hear what you have to say about your experiences.

Thanks

[Bede]

I flew with a skipper who came from AC (I think he was Zip on the 737 and then the RJ). He said he was really glad he switched.

[onetreehill]

DK

[Leerboy]

Poor form man. AC is in financial problems is nothing new. The idea that anyone who works in this industry wants to see anyone else out of work saddens me. They will be fine, restructuring and a little more time and it will be as it was before. The national carrier is not going anywhere.

[Mad Catz]

AC may or may not survive the next 10, 20, 75 years... Irregardless, whether or not it will survive is pointless, I'm more interested in the immediate noticeable changes to the average line pilot. I get the impression that many people who make the switch are happier for it, and that's really what I'm after. I've heard of a few people making the switch from AC -> WJ, but has anyone ever made the reverse switch? I highly doubt it

[highlander]

I have met and flown with both.

I flew a couple of years ago with a captain who came from AC to WJ- however, they were flying at Zip. They were happy they made the switch.

I also knew of one FO, who several years ago went from WJ to AC- my understanding was that there was a family connection at AC. (so it does happen albeit rarely)

My 2 cents- For those just starting out- you can TRY and hold out for the one company that you want to hire you and hope that they do- but that's a lot like putting all your eggs into one basket. Like most people- you get your resume out- everywhere, hope for the interview and then hope for the job- you can't always be choosy. If AC hires you first, do you tell them that you want to wait and see if WJ will hire? (vice versa of course)

I have also learned, since being at WJ- that for me- lifestyle is more important than the plane I fly. I am happy flying the 737 and I don't have to fly a wide body. WJ provides the lifestyle I am happy with. Furthermore, the company culture is great as well- BUT it's not for everyone. Maybe you don't agree with our business model or our culture, that's fine- you don't have to- but then you probably shouldn't come work for us.

I have total respect for my brothers and sisters at AC or any other airline. Sometimes we don't have choices, but we need to look after each other and respect each other. Anyone from AC or anywhere else that comes here is welcomed with open arms.

[Mad Catz]

Thanks for you input highlander. I have to agree. Aircraft type no longer concerns me, but working conditions and job satisfaction do. I came to AC with an open mind, having previously no preference for either. I find the people I immediately work with are very good, highly skilled, and likeable. However, after having gone through the past 2 years of negots, the bitter rivalry between the line worker and the upper echelons, rears its ugly head. You really get the impression that your on a rudderless ship steadily drifting out to sea, and the worst part, is that no one cares. It's painful to watch a once proud airline, fall to the greed of a few.

This is what I admire about WJ culture, "Rowing in the same direction". I can appreciate however, that it may not be for everyone as you mentioned. I guess I'm trying to gain more insight into the lifestyle of a WJ'er. Anyone care to comment on things you dislike about your job? Pm me if you like, doesn't need to be made public

[highlander]

Mad Catz- sorry it took so long to get back to you. I don't really have any negative complaints. I, very happy where I am. Like any place, we have good days and bad days but overall I really enjoy coming to work. It's an exciting time to be here.

If you have any questions though- please don't hesitate to pm me and I can try and answer any of your questions or concerns

[Tika]

Pm'd

[yycflyguy]

I also knew of one FO, who several years ago went from WJ to AC- my understanding was that there was a family connection at AC. (so it does happen albeit rarely)

Happens more often than you think.

The most impressive attribute at WS is the openness and willingness of management to work with the labour groups for the mutual benefit of a sustainable airline. From what I see/hear there is not the middle management bloat and disconnect that exists at AC.

[jjj]

YYCFLYGUY,

Come to the Teal side, we have huggy good times and even a pizza party for new hires. It will set your career back a decade or so but come on - free pizza! I promise to come over all the time and not drink too much of your beer.

JJJ

[yycflyguy]

YYCFLYGUY,

Come to the Teal side, we have huggy good times and even a pizza party for new hires. It will set your career back a decade or so but come on - free pizza! I promise to come over all the time and not drink too much of your beer.

JJJ

I need the hugs... and free is always in my price range.

[KAG]

we no longer serve Koolaid - we now have stuffed crust pizza

[yyz monkey]

we no longer serve Koolaid - we now have stuffed crust pizza

Don't forget the BBQs. And the tailgates. And the birthday cakes.

[yycflyguy]

Birthday cakes AND hugs? Well, that changes everything.

[cj555]

For those who have made the switch from AC to WJ, how do you find moving from a seniority based system to a non seniority based system?

[Tika]

I couldn't ask for a better system. I think most of the veterans would agree.

*AC is not the only outfit with seniority btw

[cj555]

I couldn't ask for a better system. I think most of the veterans would agree.

*AC is not the only outfit with seniority btw

What are you referring to as the better system? Seniority or no seniority?