That is correct and is supported by the August Crew resources news letter. I understand the economics of the manning. My only real issue is that is not what was represented to us by the union and company during contract negotiations.

I would argue that a statement more like this should have been issued.

"This is a very exciting time at Delta and with the addition of the 737-900's and potential addition of 88 717's. Please keep in mind while voting for this contract that with the system wide surplus of pilots, the draw down of the 757/DC9 fleets and only 530 retirements over the next half decade these additional aircraft are not indicative of future hiring. Please read the TA and ask questions"

We would not be having most of these discussions had they issued a more realistic and truthful statement. I'm sure someone will say they did not promise to hire. I agree with that, but you have to agree they led us to believe they would have to hire to man the 717. Ultimately that is the issue that bothers most pilots. We know the first 145 crews or so are coming from surplus pilots, plus whatever crews are coming from the 9. The question is how many total crews on 717 and how many can we fund from additional displacements.