Originally Posted by REF 5

Not bragging at all. Just trying to make the point that SWA doesn't need concessions from anybody. They may want it but definitely not needed.

The other problem is SWA is buying larger aircraft with more bags to load and yet no extra help. Oh well, that's a management decision. Personally I think SWA has way too many chiefs for it's operation. And most importantly, management doesn't give the sense of urgency. If the chiefs don't say anything about it or push it, then nobody will. Leadership comes from the top. SWA management is not making on time a priority. So the operation shows it.
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The gate/ops agents are a huge issue. Not wanting to step on any toes but after the 300/500's are gone SWA can easily replace the OPs agents with technology (ACARS) which most other airlines use for TO/LNG Data.
They could roll Gate/Ops Agents together to one group to get increased manning at all the gates. There is always a shortage of either or both.
That said industry leading pays should require industry leading results.
Not to beat a long dead horse, even after 5 years in negotiations on our pilot contract at AirTran we were still winning AQR awards. Yes we were dysfunctional in some ways but we were and are professionals.
The employee groups all need to brings their A games or we all fail.

Take care, fly safe and stay warm.