I'm not endorsing EK, but let's also be clear on the facts. Airtran and JB are NOT four to six year upgrades. Delta will only be hiring around 200 so they say. Out of those, Mesaba and Compass will take up at least 50% of the class with flowthrough agreements. Delta is straight reserve for at least two years right now, in junior domiciles (aka New York). Tough commute. Tougher yet with crash pad costs etc. If you're a single FO, might be your option. Married with kids, might be tough to take the paycut that comes with it, not to mention a potential commute, if you truly want to "live at your home".