They are in dire need of pilots, but the process is a somewhat long one, which is why class dates are so far out. However, I would expect a call somewhat sooner than second quarter next year-I did my 2nd int. in late April, was told late this year or earlier next year for a class date, but got an Aug class. Everyone I interviewed with will either be in class with me or the next one which starts in early Oct.
Regarding the bases, DFW is not a crew base yet, so thats that. ATL is, but is very senior within the company, and there is already a list of current pilots that want to transfer to ATL once a vacancy opens up. ORD is the same way, the base is full, and anytime there's a vacancy it is usually filled by current pilots. Working overseas isn't an option because one can't be based directly in HK as an FO, and to work on the freighter in one of the other countries you must have the right to work in that country ie citizenship. So the only current real options for a new hire are JFK, LAX, or ANC. Knowing how they operate, if you tell them you'll take ANY base, you're going to ANC. If thats not what you really want, I would email Amy back with a list of base preferences in order. You can list ATL first, but don't expect it.
The pay issue is a non-issue. The pay is excatly as advertised on sites like airlinepilotcentral.com; only when you hear that they've begun hiring DEFO PAX US based with there be a new payrate taking effect, and then only for those hired AFTER that effective date.
Hope this helps, Congrats on getting through.