Originally Posted by
Herkflyr
I think it is more the idea that we went slightly backwards on this. But what a lot of the upset guys are not mentioning is still how much better reserve is compared to years past. When I got hired 17 years ago, for your first day on call, it was automatic short call at 0300--every time, system-wide--and the "just say no" crowd never said a peep. Now guys are complaining that they could possibly report as early as 1000.
Also, neither the contract, any MOU (that I'm aware of) nor the FARs ever restricted first day reports to 1200 or later. It was simply an internal company policy since January while they tried to sort through all the new issues that 117 brought up.
A potential 1000 report--at the earliest--for your first on-call day is not a deal-breaker in my opinion.
Herk, I think part of the heartburn is coming because our MEC has said when we have leverage we will use it to IMPROVE things. It seems, as a whole, this agreement is another checkmate for management. Btw, every single small item that "doesnt seem to have any good use" or things management will "probably" and "likely" not be using, WILL be used. Let's not be naive or foolish thinking it's just words and not in there for a reason.
Anything that has negative safety repercussions should be a no go. Anything that reduces staffing should be a no go. We've stagnated from the fallout of 911, SARS, sunken economy, "synergy" and parked planes from a merger", age 65, to C2012's increased productivity. Please stop! The company can afford to throw some more bones in work rules and compensation now. Let's work toward that end. In the mean time status quo helps us more than hurts us (especially given the FAA's 4 recent clarifications which were published yesterday, weighing in our favor). Siphon off the last remaining leverage we may have and watch management ignore us when C2015 rolls around.
On a side note, I think one has to really consider where the company is going regarding notification. Don't be surprised if in C2015 they have it all tied into the tablets that are coming. I believe their ultimate goal will be for us to tote that tablet around and shorten the leash even further. Let's keep a sharp eye out when the language is produced on this TA to see if there is more small print aimed in taking us that direction.