Originally Posted by
Elvis90
"We are very aware of the wave of pilot retirements that will begin to impact us in five years. Our current analysis shows, depending on the Delta pilot attrition rate and expected growth in flying, we will need to begin hiring sometime between the end of 2013 and early 2015. All departments in Flight Ops are actively engaged in preparing for the impending wave of pilot retirements from a staffing, training and recruiting standpoint."
I think whoever puts those updates out has been pulled aside and "educated" about the needs to manage pilot expectations. There is no way, barring a massive downturn or another scope sale, that we can get away with putting off hiring until 2015. That is just insane and they know it. The fact that they are pushing the limits of reality just to manage expectations is not only effecting their credibility but possibly tipping their hand to how "constructive" the negotiations are going to be.
Of course I'm sure if we agree to outsource another couple hundred large RJ's that will create mainline jobs LOL!