Thanks Bar, Lolwut for expanding.

Part of me thinks this is no different than negotiating with wholly-owned carriers in the past, i.e. with Comair, to strong-arm them. At that point, I don't think the DAL MEC was involved. The communication chain changes somehwat due to Pinnacle's reorganization, and Delta's rolw in it, but it's still Delta dealing through whatever channels to negotiate permitted flying. I assume this went through the same DCI puppet-master that coordinated every other deal on permitted flying.

However, I agree that it raises questions about constructive engagement, and the role of ALPA. I checked with my rep on this, and can't get conclusive answers, because he doesn't have conclusive answers either. Seems like it's certainly on the radar screen.

I'll keep following the discussion.

I'm much more interested in what discussions take place between DAL and Virgin Atlantic, and this might very well dovetail into that.