As you can tell, everybody else has countered point your claims (btw it is only required 30 days notice to DOT to change an ENTIRE schedule, never the less one that might be spread about different airlines). However this statement is probably the smartest you have made about this situation. Yes it is a small possibility to use the bad press and info circulating as a contract negotiation point. Yet my question would be (if i were an union negotiator), "why would I be affraid of those rumors if you (mgmt) is still negotiating for a new contract?. What's the point if you (mgmt) are going to closes us down?".
Anyhow, truly hope you're correct about that.