All I read on these boards is how understaffed ExpressJet already is. So by magically hammering out an JCBA, all of ExpressJet's staffing woes will instantly disappear?

I agree that the ExpressJet pilots (L-ASA, L-XJT) need to come to an agreement to operate under one set of rules. Right now you have a scheduling department that has to abide by two different sets of rules regarding both pilot groups. After you do that, the Dispatch groups could probably find it in their hearts to come to an agreement to be one group as well. You have ASA dispatchers sitting back watching the XJT dispatchers get their asses handed to them and thanks to those lovely union rules the ASA guys can't do a damn thing to step in and help out. The FAs and the Mechanics would be next in line.

However, even after this dream scenario is finally realized, Inc still isn't going to throw new flying at an airline that can't handle what it already has. Unfortunately, shrinking to a manageable size is almost a must. Once the operation has its priorities straight then you can start adding a piece or two here and there.