My husband has been working for his airline for 10 years now, and he has commuted essentially, all the time. I think for the first 6 months he had his own apartment, but after that, he just commuted. It stunk, although we really don't know any difference than commuting to the base. When we were within driving distance to Cleveland, it was better, so much better. It was still about a 2 hour commute by car, but it was okay, especially on reserve. On the other hand, this commute of one leg just sucks when you have kids/family. He has to leave himself at least 2 flights, just in case, and that typically means that he leaves the house around 4 am on the first day. The really good trips (4 days worth 27 hours) are not commutable, so the guys living at the base are the ones that get those trips. As far as senior guys commuting, my husband sees a lot of senior guys commuting because, like mentioned, their wives and kids are already established somewhere. I am sure, with seniority schedules, it is better the longer you have been there, but still stinks. IF that is what you are used to though, you just deal with it.
