Originally Posted by
CAPTAINPCL
I think people are over reacting to the notion that Delta might be dropping the 4 year degree requirement. The SSP bridge program that was included in Pinnacle's concessionary contract says that pilots must meet the minimum requirements set by Delta, which includes having a degree. There was a rumor going around Pinnacle at the time of the voting that our MEC President had a "vault letter" from Delta management saying that the degree was not required, however no one has seen this letter and I think it was a tactic to get the guys that don't have a degree to vote yes. I would be surprised if Delta hires even 1 pilot from the SSP agreement without a 4 year degree.
On a side note, some of the best pilots I have ever flown with don't have a college degree. To me it means nothing more than a piece of paper that says you have the perseverance to finish something you've started, it in no way increases your ability to safely transport passengers from point A to B.
I agreed to that point. Better safety all around comes from a good safety net of qualified and competent individuals. The degree is printed on paper but weeds out under performing elements. Maybe a great stick and rudder pilot without a degree but it is meant to harbor selection of the best all around candidate. So does the expensive piece of paper make one more qualified and thus better support the whole?? Of course. That is why DAL wants it! Some will get through to DAL (and have) without one and the world will not cease, but doing away with it will over time weaken the fabric.. It is just my opinion of course!
