Originally Posted by
Splash
For the sake of argument, let's assume the rumors about 23.G are true.
How many lines?
Since it doesn't decrease the number of pilots flying, what is the net effect on staffing?
How will changes to OE schedules be handled? I'm referring to situations where a pilot needs extra training before OE, or further OE. Situations where a simulator breaks, sick leave, or needs more OE time.
This looks like a time when we should keep our powder dry until we see the exact terms of the agreement before we conclude it is a serious hit.
As an outsider looking in.. want to add something to your point-
A few months back I posted a question on your Delta Thread (and on AA's) concerning how international LOE (OE to you guys) was manned.
On the United side, the company was trying to change how they staffed those trips (with regards to PBS/fourth pilot).
Long story short- many of us saw more than the usual amount of trips (pairings/id's) removed from our "available trip pool" when PBS is trying to build us our schedules.
The EWR-HNL 76-4 trips in one of the senior cream of the crop trips by us. 3 day worth over 21hrs of WB pay. Easy flying.. gone about 50 hrs, Home early.
It' usual for some of those trips to have IOE on them. The usual thing was to just buy the FO position after he was awarded it and shortly before they knew they would need the trip for IOE. Same goes for any of the other international trips.
Now, here's the problem-
IF that trip were to be held back from PBS, you wouldn't know it because you don't know which LCA Captains are going to bid which ones!
So number 1 FO bid Mon-Wed HNL trips. Then PBS runs and a LCA gets the Mon-Wed trips. Now said trip is no longer in the pool and #1 FO can't get what he bid!
Training doesn't have the names of individuals to plug into those trips a month(+) out.. so it sits there with no FO.
That affects not only number 1 FO, but EVERYONE below him (or her)!
With us hiring a little under 100 a month.. plus a lot of seat swapping going on within the pilot group also.. the amount of IOE (OE) is huge.
If you don't stay 2 steps ahead of contract negotiations, you end up with items that have a major (negative) effect on manpower and QoL.
Good luck guys. Looking forward to seeing what the TA really looks like. I'll add this last point. When we (UAL/CAL) had our "TA"... there were all kind of rumors abound.
We too (the rank and file/message board groupies) were constantly told to "not believe the rumors.. wait and see before you judge".
Well, I agree that you should "wait and see before voting NO".. but, the [negative] rumors almost ALL turned out to be true. And by then, it was too late~
Always
Motch
PS> If your MEC turns it down, will you still 'see' what it was? Seems like you will if your MEC meeting tomorrow is open, and the TA is being discussed.