Let's look at the inflation rate since the current contract was signed in 2012. And let's look at what other airline pay rates are. Asking for 20% less than 4 years after the previous contract is an overreach and not reality based. And let's not forget that annual pay increases above the inflation rate were built into the current contract.

Sure, we could get a 20% pay raise. As long as we're willing to give up a LOT of QOL benefits. For instance, cut the company's 401K contribution down to 5% and slash profit sharing. It's not hard to get a 20% pay raise, but the costs of that pay raise make it not worth the price we'll pay in other areas. Here's a thought - since I don't use the company medical benefits, let's reduce the company's subsidy - that'd be a win-win for me. I'm not serious about higher medical costs for pilots, but that illustrates another area where the company could recoup any outsized pay raise.

Sadly, you are bobbleheading in the belief that 20% pay raise is reasonable.