While 11,000 or so combined pilots is certainly above a minimum funding threshold for independence and...independence makes a more common-sense argument when it comes to scope issues, it will not eliminate politics from a inherently corrupt, self-serving political exercise (organized labor), nor will it speed up negotiations.

On the contrary, it will extend them interminably because of the requirement to elect and spool up a new representative to include administration, elections, committee appointments and preparation. If you are a young man, you will be an old man before a TA is reached if your organization is changed out in the middle of a section six.

Mr. Mako makes an excellent point. Please note it before freezing negotiations to resume at some distant, as-yet-to-be-determined future date.

Also, please note, the pilot groups are not combined yet. That means, make sure you understand the demographics before embarking down a path that may not let you easily backtrack if it gets tough.

I have experience as a pilot in an independent organization. It will not help you in negotiations. However, it will make you feel warm and fuzzy because it's your very own.

Choose carefully.

Good luck.