E72: NQDC Unpacked: Who It’s For, How It Works, and What to Do This Open Enrollment

The R&I guys are back! Host First Officer Ryan Argenta sits down with Captain Scott Bowles and Captain John Doherty from ALPA’s Retirement & Insurance Committee to talk smart money, savvy timing, and how pilots can make major-league financial plays through the new Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation (NQDC) plan. Whether you’re eyeing tax strategy, income flexibility, or long-term planning, learn how to harness a little Bobby Bonilla energy - turning today’s earnings into tomorrow’s steady paychecks. We cover eligibility, tax-deferral tactics, in-service vs. retirement/termination distributions, market exposure, and practical risk checks, including insolvency considerations and timing gotchas. After the break, we shift to Open Enrollment 2026: plan changes, HSA reminders, GVUL considerations (including the imputed-income play), and simple to-dos so you don’t leave money on the table. It’s practical, pilot-specific financial insight with a side of humor and real-world strategy.

An overview of the NQDC and related MOU details can be found in R&I Update 25-03.

The FAQs can be accessed directly at Newport NQDC FAQs. The first round of Newport-hosted webinars has concluded; however, pilots can watch a replay of the Plan Design Overview Meeting  via Deltanet.

Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Talk with your own financial advisor, tax professional, and/ or attorney before making enrollment decisions.