Its vague, because its conceptual, without concrete data points its drawing inferences from information available. If you want to see the story put what you know on the table and start arranging it so that it makes sense.

1# Airline pilots are skilled machine operators, with a lengthily training
process.

2# Expansion of routes/market share is dependent on available assets
equipment and personnel.

3# The new COO is a longtime UAL player.

If you were an employer, would you prefer to pay a starting pay rate higher than 1st year if there were any way around it? Think like your opponent.

Occam's Razor would dictate that she is just going to be the new COO.

First question to Occam, Why? Her? Now?
I think there may be more in play than, just because, Brad wants to move back to SGU and play golf with Ron Reber.