And finally, another point that is being swept under the rug: the idea that discussions occurred directly between Delta and another pilot group, without any involvement of, or any notification to, or MEC. What does it say about the nature of the special relationship, that we were not at least given a courtesy call? Am I correct that the MEC members were just as blindsided by this, as line pilots were surprised? Is this normal? Is the engagement off?

I've agreed that there might be a logical explanation for what happened, that the MEC may find that they don't have a problem with what happened, and that I probably would ultimately agree that there is no problem if given some information. What I don't understand is how it is that we were not even notified. That just doesn't make sense.

In fact, I think it's so improbable that Delta would do this for no gain, that I think we must've been involved earlier than is publicly admitted.