Better than the cram down Donatelli and the boys put out, but this reasoning above smells of fear. Fear translates into a weak bargaining position. Afraid to pursue anything more to get the "right deal" is not the way. Also, playing it safe by taking a low ball offer spells trouble for our next contract. Work rules keep getting torn away until we have nothing left.
Btw, this approach essentially nullified the value of all those pilot surveys guys took the time to meticulously fill out. In contrast, there should have been honest communications with the pilot group (not tag lines and fluffy BS), while the TA was being formed. This produces several benefits:
1. 12,000+ eyes involved in the vetting process. This illuminates and eliminates the no go items before they gain any traction.
2. Instead of hollow words such as "You are helping form this TA with your surveys" the pilots are no kidding part of the process and therefore get behind their leadership. Management sees this and in turn bargains in better faith.
3. #1 and #2 create solidarity. No surprises. No need for missleading sales campaigns. The pilot group retains trust in their union leaders.
As luck would have it, none of these occurred. Vote this down and replace those who failed to represent. Let's do this the right way.
PS- letting un-elected tarts take negotiations hostage is unacceptable and counter productive to achieving the right agreement.