Sink r8: just curious on your opinion of Doug Parker and why he couldn't turn a new AA into a powerhouse, a la Richard Anderson.
I understand that Parker was limited in what he could do with USAir, given their size and niche status. Now that he has huge assets available to him, and a newly lean carrier eager to grow with employees eager to kick out the old guard and bring in new blood - do you not agree he has a great opportunity? Is he capable of pulling a Delta?
Deep down, all pilot groups are essentially the same: they WANT to do a great job. It's the daily grind of inept management that stifles this desire. If Parker shows himself to be a leader, I believe we'll see the pilots of AA rise to the occasion.
This last paragraph is dead on. And it goes for ANY company in ANY industry. You put a solid leader at the front of the pack and treat your employees well your business will become a powerhouse to be reckoned with. It's not rocket science. As long as you're smart (or at least surround yourself with smart people and treat them well) the company will prosper.
To the original question... Since I can't take the poll via iPhone... Yes first year pay would be a concern of mine, but not a deal breaker. If I had the choice (God willing) I'd go with Delta because of their management currently, and United would be a close 2nd due to bases. AA I wouldn't turn down by any means, but I'd like to see what happens with this merger first.