Originally Posted by
43Inches
The US pilots deserve as much as they can get, especially at the lower echelons. $450K does sound very high though, although I would not complain and if they can get more why not.
And yes, Dash and SAAB skippers should be closer to $200k as a minimum, not after all considered and working your ass off. The proof is in the pudding though, no one wants to fly for those companies, at least not for long and only as a stepping stone.
If you took CPI increases as a minimum then SAAB Captains should be on closer to $160k base and Dash Captains at least $180k. However that does not account for the lifestyle changes to these operations over the years, with more layovers and FRMS implementation. So the figure of around $200K is probably where they should be. Can't afford it? Well whats less affordable, paying pilots more so that you have flights, or not having any pilots and a lot of grounded aircraft.
The regionals have to make a big decision if they want to stay in business. Look at base salaries north of $200k for Captains AND 10-12 days off to attract/retain senior staff, or, shut the doors and go manage a fish & chip shop.
Here's some more data points for you: In 1980 I flew a 55 pax aeroplane at 280 kts and was paid $60K. (~1000 hrs)That was around three times an average 1980 salary. That equates to $221,000 now. That aircraft could generate 28,600 revenue passenger kilometres an hour. A Dash 8-400 can generate 48,000 rpk/hour.
My next door neighbour is a small time builder doing renos and small extensions. He uses 2 or 3 contractors and makes $250K himself. Home by 4 every day, every weekend off. You get the idea. But sadly, its not a sexy job.