Originally Posted by
DAL 88 Driver
When the latest paint scheme first came out and RJ's started being painted in it, we had the chance to impact this in a positive way (for us) and DALPA just looked the other way. Our contract states the following: "Delta Connection flying aircraft will only bear the name “Delta” as part of a phrase referencing a Connection-type operation." Clearly, the current paint scheme on DCI aircraft does not use "DELTA" as part of a phrase. The term "Connection" is much lower on the fuselage and in much smaller font (and can't even be seen from the terminal when parked at a jetway)... an obvious attempt to hide the fact that it is not a Delta aircraft.
There's a reason we put that language in our contract. And, obviously, that reason is to prevent Delta from passing off DCI flights as Delta flights. More specifically, it is to prevent Delta from passing off non-Delta pilots as Delta pilots. But I guess our MEC, under Lee Moak, didn't think that part of our contract was worth enforcing. Their excuse at the time was, "it's in compliance." Well here's what I think of that:
Tis true, they made the connection part as invisible as possible. This goes back to the fact that I truly believe they don't think we're very good at our job. Hence, replace us on the bottom, in the middle and at the top.
^^^^ FWIW, this is an Embraer E-175. When tower tells you to follow the Embraer E-175, don't argue with the pilot next to you as the Embraer taxis by and say "that's an Airbus, we're supposed to follow an Embraer." Yeah, I know I'm speaking to the choir here though but still, basic aircraft identification should be the simplest part of the job. I mean is that a 737-800 or a 739 or a DC-9-40 or -50? You get a pass on that, but everyone should easily recognize the 732 replacement fleet.
The best part about the word connection on the CRJ-900 is that when it's at the gate and the service door is open you don't see "connection."
