Anyone who still sees a regional as a stepping stone to the majors hasnt been in the business over the past 7 years. The regional route is a stepping stone TODAY because CAL, DAL, NWA, SWA, et al are hiring. What about the situation not too long ago when the doors at all but SWA were bolted tight?

Anyone who goes to a regional today with the hopes of it being a quick stop on the way to a major should hope for the best but prepare for the worst. I think more pilots are doing just that these days and want to see a reasonable compenation level IF they do end up stuck there in the right seat for 2, 4, or 6 years.

A combined seniority list may be a big draw for the SJS crowd, but I think a lot of folks who have been though the latest downturn are going to think that $36/hour is $36/hour no matter who signs the check.

I think it is a positive sign though if AMR does recognize that something needs to be done.