Originally Posted by
Tranquility
A couple of points;
First, if you start at industry average being one of the most profitable airlines there's no rational reason to settle for lower. Period. End of discussion. And I believe that's our negotiating committees belief as well. And while I won't voice what I will vote for, the NC knows, their ask reflects it.
Secondly, you can't rationally demand in mediation a compensation package outside the "zone of agreeableness ".... It sounds asinine, but if we did that, we'd look the fool and damage our case for a release....
Thirdly, this isn't a car purchase where you ask low expecting to meet in the middle (as management is hoping with their offer). One must have a rational and justified case for their proposal and ALPA EFA has proven that our ask isn't only reasonable, it is sustainable. There is no reason to move off of it. If they do (which is entirely possible) other numbers will change as well. Don't get wrapped up around a singular number but rather look at the entire thing.
How reasonable will it sound to not budge on a single point during negotiations? How is that going to look? What other airline in history has gotten the exact contract it put forth on its first ask?
I think it is reasonable for us to ask for a leading contract as we are the most profitable airline and we carry the most passengers for the planes we fly.
Come tell me this same story when we get the first contract to vote on. I hope you're right but I don't think it will pan out that way. I'd say there is a 70% chance the company will drag this out forever just like they did to the flight attendants (9 years) and eventually we will have to strike.