One of the things to consider with this is that it was/is a negotiation. We have to give something and they have to give something. DW said it straight out, he wanted more, the company wasn't willing. It is a step in the direction of getting US, FedEx pilots, flying our planes. The STV is a means for the company to ensure that when it places 10 million dollars on the pass line, it has the any craps covered just in case. If they invest in opening this domicile, using/hiring our and new pilots, the company has to ensure that if they don't have enough pilots qualified, that they can cover these lines. What happens to FedEx's credibility in a push in new market, if our pilots can't/won't fly the lines.

I am 30 from the bottom on the bus, the STV thing is very near and dear to my heart. I argued it at the meeting and spoke with DW, Tony C, and the other reps about it, in depth while I was there. I made the point that if anyone gets inversed, I'll be him, it's that simple. The STV was a give on the unions behalf to ensure the flying get's done. Would I rather see that go as siba, absolutely, then my days off are just that, mine. I don't agree with the STV, it by far is my biggest beef with this LOA. Does this LOA give us what we want, no, but it is a start. It can be built upon. I think that the mass emails and general tone in what we see here and on our FCIF, inbox from the union, convey something in an us vs. them, you need to vote this attitude. I though DW did a good job explaining the unions objective, getting MORE FedEx pilot's on property, flying FedEx planes, and protecting our interests. This LOA is far from being a good one IMHO, but it is something to work from. I encorage those of you that feel emotionally charged by this to attend a meeting, or pick up the phone and call your rep. Read the LOA and CBA, get smart on what part is pi$$ing you off, and get an answer, in a phone call or in person. You may also get some insight to why the LOA is written the way it is.

I was dead set against the LOA(for the STV), I voted no, but I can say, I am on the fence now after attending the meeting. Think about what is important, and the best way to attain that(if it is even attainable). I'm not trying to get you to change your vote, but I encourage you to talk to someone and read about it before you set yourself in stone.

Flame away...