Remember, the ValuJet guys paid for their types too. Of course we ATers have a high opinion of SW and their position in the airline world. However we weren't sitting in leaky boat waiting to be rescued. We have been fighting for close to two decades to make a good company with considerable adversity. By almost every metric we were succeeding.

Some on the SW side seem to think we should be happy with the money, with no other considerations. We did not ask for this, but feel we bring value to the table. Most of us will be very happy to work hard and use our skills to the benefit of SW and will adapt to the culture to SW's satisfaction. We have become very sensitive to disrespect from management, and are disappointed that we are headed to being second class at our new home. Forever being the "others" is not what we imagined.

I believe a small amount of respect for our position will bring large dividends for the "real" SW pilots. Both near and long term.