Originally Posted by
FL370esq
The contra-argument is that the PWA does not require the company to offer unfilled positions to new hires. The PWA says "may" versus "shall." Unfilled Capt positions were probably beyond the realm of consideration when the PWA language was drafted which is why the current language only addresses unfilled FO positions.
Yup, but they still need to attract pilots for these positions, internally then. More June - August vacation weeks, better trips, more schedule flexibility, and of course more pay would do it. Instead they attempt to limit sick usage and get rid of shorter trips that lend themselves to flexibility.
Swapping, dropping and adding 4+ day trips is nearly impossible. Add the removal of open time for OE and the schedule has more value than the pay for FOs considering upgrade. Reap what you sow.