Perhaps we are witnessing the evolution of management ... moving from irony to paradox.

Irony: Decide to save money by outsourcing. Spend 12 Billion on equipment to achieve goal of saving money. End up bankrupt.

Paradox: Decide to save money by outsourcing. Increase profits at mainline. Charge employees of outsourcing provider for costs associated with outsourcing.

Delta's merger is ahead of yours. It has reached enigmatic. The company makes money. How, is an enigma to most of us line guys.