Perhaps that's what this (contract) negotiation is really all about. Labor wants to get back to the good times, but they ain't coming back until DAL gets some profitability. While sought by both business and labor, profitability isn't likely to happen while we have so many players in the (domestic US only?) airline market. Unfortunately a little consolidation is required, which can be painful for labor groups and politicians alike. Que RA's recent speech.

So what's it gonna be for DAL? Job 'security' by demanding scope returns and big paychecks but risk becoming a regional niche airline (similar to ALK) or take a leap and start the cascade of Skyteam, Star, and OneWorld. But if DALPA jumps, the question follows: What would it be like to work for 1 of only 3 airlines in the world? Would labor groups enjoy the same protections the DAL group has enjoyed over the decades? The DAL/DALPA 'team' seems as good as any to tackle the question.

Now pass the beer.