I agree that this deal will get done once the economics become in play. Those economics come into play once the SOC is done. That will be what gets us leverage. That has true measurement to a BOD and shareholders. I believe the delay in dealing with anything in regards to work rules and compensation has been differed until they recapture them through synergies unlocked by SOC.

Lets not let a good opportunity to close the deal in the upcoming window. Lets just look what happened at the airline with the best labor relations and how they handled negocaiations with Airtran pilots. If we look at this as a business transaction and not an emotional one we will end up on the upside financially and in measurable quality of life.

The right has controlled the message to the public that any demonstration by a union is ignored. We need to adjust to this reality if we believe winning the public opinion poll is important.