Another idea, kahfmi, try a conversation with a railroader. There is more than a passing resemblance between the two systems because the airlines model for Union contracts was....the railroads. It's evolved, but it has its similarities. You can't decry the current system for its admited faults without understanding how it hit this way.

Don't like seniority, speak to guys at railroads or other unionized industries (autos come to mind) where guys are junior at 58.

GF