No, not everyone knows the reserve rules. Since times are good now, many pilots are bidding new equipment, or being bumped in the case of the 747. There are vast numbers of pilots that have absolutely no idea how reserve works anymore. So much has changed, and they are blind sided at what is legal--yes, it's their fault for not doing their homework, but as I said, many have no idea about reserve today.

The basic point is, with minimal negotiating capital, we can make a very few changes to the contract and have a large increase in the QOL of the reserve. That, in my book, is every negotiators dream. The changes proposed by Mako, really wouldn't impact the availability for the company much either. It would improve predictability and transparency.

So, yes, I think we need improvements in reserve. Is it a good system today? I don't think so. Way back, when everyone was short call, not nearly as many people commuted, but your days off were your days off. No rolling days. Things are different than they used to be, my take would be not as good, but it could be, or better.

Do the contract surveys, talk to your reps, make resolutions at your council meetings. One thing I do agree with, is if you aren't willing to be part of the solution, then don't whine about something you don't like--well, ok, maybe a little. We are pilots after all...