It seems like this move signals the end of the Jeff/Fred-era. The cold, objective light of reason (and maybe fiduciary responsibility) is replacing the "well we've always done it this way" mindset and any lingering loyalties.
I don't mean to trivialize the impact to the non-scab IAH pilots, but the idea that any one hub exists in a vacuum and is important because "we-say-it-is", seems disingenuous and simplistic.
It's entirely possible that when, not if, the oil industry recovers, the 787 will be back in IAH.
Good luck to everyone.