In my years as a Captain I found it to be more respected by the passengers to tell them the truth and explain why you need that system fixed. In my short time at DAL I have seen several Captains do just that with an excellent outcome every time.

I also must have missed an FAR's that require an airline pilot to LIE to the passengers that are aboard their flight about any decision the Captain has made for whatever reason.

I do think it is sad that the company feels this decison was made over union disagreements and even went as far as to tell the rest of the employees that the pilots are basically squabbling little brats that are hurting the whole airline. I bet they would feel differently if they were sifting through twisted metal and bodies.

Don't forget those Colgan pilots were Legal to fly too. Legal is not always safe!