Gloopy,

Interesting read.

As for ASA's "pre existing policy" on seniority resignation, it had a very interesting wrinkle. At one time Delta had second officers who did not meet Delta's mins to become First Officers. A SLOA was negotiated which allowed concurrent seniority at ASA and Delta, PRIOR TO THE PID.

The concept was pilots could go on leave from Delta, gain experience at ASA, then return to Delta. Not sure if anyone actually used it. ASA had a dozen or so instructors and other employee groups pass through. They kept their DOH for benefits, but restarted their seniority when "hired" as a Delta pilot.

I've always thought the concept of concurrent seniority within a brand is something that merited more analysis. In effect, Delta could move jets around different operators, but regardless those airplanes would be flown by Delta pilots.