ALPA merger policy and arbitration. As the United guys learned....an arbitrator does not have to follow the merger policy. The unions follow it in negotiations. The bottom line is when you go to arbitration that means you failed and now an arbitrator has to figure it out. They can use all, some or none of the merger policy. If they choose to use the merger policy, they can interpret and weigh the policy however they want. In their minds....you failed and this is what you get and there’s nothing you can do about it. They can do whatever the heck they want to be honest. Just ask United about the arbitrator’s 787 decision. So if you’re hanging your hat on an arbitrator following the policy...get ready to be surprised...or disappointed.