Part of it is the individual's decision. The Union lawyer presents both sides. If you're terminated your chance of EVER getting another flying job are minimal. If you voluntarily retire, no future employer would ever be the wiser.

In this case, his name got publicized so that would work against him. I wouldn't say the Union is exactly complicit, but they do lay out the trials and tribulations of fighting Alaska in a termination deal. One can visualize a certain Captain who fought the Company for 8 months eventually winning in the end. However, when he came back he had a huge target on his back and the Company eventually found a reason to terminate him.

So if you're the Captain in this case and you know that story, is it better to take the retirement? If you do, you get your half lump sum, your pension (if you stayed on the A plan) and your non-rev privileges. If you get terminated you lose everything plus get the black mark on your record when it comes to your future.

What would you choose? Alaska is very consistent in treating pilots in this manner. If you're close enough to retirement, you're good. If you're a junior F/O or not close enough to retirement, you're flocked.

Again, a cautionary tale for those who remain on the property. Alaska likes to make examples of those who don't, can't or won't toe the line. In spite of their "We Are Family" B.S., they have no compunction about throwing you to the wolves, especially since there are PLENTY of eager young wannabes out there.