Maurus
The Great Gazoo
The biggest problem is the temporary nature of what they were offering. It only lasts for 2 years and then FOs will be back to their terrible pay rates. ~$24/hr first year. They need to offer a more permanent solution in the form of higher pay rates.No need to pay retention bonuses to Captains, because the last thing you want as a First Officer is for Captains to stay. You want them to move on so you can move up. It's better for you. It's better for them. It's better for everyone
Other regionals increased FO pay and are doing better at hiring as a result.
My guess is that they hope their cadet program somehow works this time (it didn't work at Envoy). The bonus would last long enough for cadets to start showing up for training and management would get a pay reset.