I talked to the Chief Pilot's office last week about this very issue. They reiterated that the staffing freeze is for NON-productive positions, ie. analyst, clerks, etc. With the aircraft deliveries and international expansion next year they are still planning on 600-700 new pilot positions. I believe Kennedy alone is adding 14 new overseas routes by summer. All with 3 and 4 man cockpits. This, coupled with the 737s, additional 757s and new 777s will all result in growth.

I agree, I was alarmed when I first saw the headlines on this but upon further review and investigation it looks like front line positions are going to be okay.