I not sure sure I get your apparent disdain for Senior FO's as chief pilots. Most of the negotiation committee of comprised of FO's. Are FO's talented enough to be there but not work in the flight office?
In the course of my career, I've seen great leaders step forward whether captain or FO.
As to the issue of AA's relationship with the FAA, I think we have a good one, but you'll have to ask others in the know their opinion.
Cheers
