Tony - I enjoy reading your posts and agree with many of your points; however, can you please expand upon this statement...

"The Company's Labor Attorneys promised to raise the FAE cap to keep up with increasing hourly pay rates."

I think we all know that the only "promises" which matter are those written in the CBA

The company wants to freeze/eliminate/buy out our A plan

They'd prefer a straight B plan model, like the pax carriers now enjoy

It's cheaper, and has less risk --- especially in the economic environment of the past 10 years

My posts are geared towards the new idea that a "variable defined benefit" is the answer.

To me, it's a "defined contribution" plan in disguise.

They contribute a fixed amount which will hypothetically pay out a defined amount based on an assumed rate of return. If that doesn't work out, well that's a risk the pilots now take.

Sounds a lot like the B fund I already have, but without some of the B fund benefits --- i.e. In my name & my control

If we are successful in increasing the A fund FAE limit, I think we should tie it to other portions of our contract rates.

Perhaps, WB Capt or NB Capt x 1,000 hours --- then fill in the missing value with B fund enhancements

I don't think the company will agree to an A fund cap that captures our highest earners, and all the extra hours & various payments they may strive for in their final years --- that era won't return