Originally Posted by
Intel33
Does anyone know if the new contract activates the buy-out clause for those who want to retire? I understand the last contract did and there may be quite a few of the "more experienced" pilots who might have been waiting on that before retiring. If so that would cause some movement.
There is no buyout in the contract. Both the Union and management have agreed to a VSP (voluntary separation program) as it has been told to the pilot group. We do not know, nor have we been shown what the stipulations are in the VSP. It is up to management to institute the VSP at their choosing. People are expecting some huge acceptance rate for the VSP, but I bet we won't see more than 150. At least I bet the company won't allow more than 150. Now between those having seniority numbers at the majors (there are several), those wanting to leave regardless of a VSP, those getting interviews, and those waiting to receive the signing bonus, it wouldn't shock me if we saw 500 people leave in 2016.