I know for a fact a certain manager said we will have to hire OR get rid of airframes sooner if attrition keeps up. Now, this was said a few months ago and my understanding is attrition has slowed considerably from its highs of 60+. I wouldn't be surprised if an upgrade class or 2 happens by the end of the year. Contrary to popular belief, more CAs are leaving than FOs.
Also, remember many majors begin interviews and pick up hiring in the fall. A late hiring class at the end of the year isn't out of the question. Also, how are we losing a net of 16? We do lose 16 AC but we also are taking deliveries of 900s starting in Sept, I thought.