Originally Posted by Bengalsfan
Do you think it would be advantageous for the industy if the government would stop bailing out failing airlines? For example... just let United die already, or when Northwest goes bankrupt, don't help them...
Yes, I like examples - can YOU give an example how the government has "bailed out" the likes of UAL? Was it when UAL tried to consolidate with America West in 1998 to align capcity with demand - but was denied by the DOT? Was it when UAL tried to consolidate with USAir in 2000 to align capcity with demand - but was denied by the DOT? It's ironic that they can "marry" each other though. Was it after they lost two aircraft on 9//11 - yet in the aftermath the ATSB awarded loan guarantees to almost every airline that applied EXCEPT United?
Are you suggesting that Corporations in America EXCEPT airlines, or even worse, only certain airlines should be allowed to operate under reorganization laws? Is that a bail out?
Are the feds bailing out UAL when the PBGC (which is a pension insurance "company") had to pay a claim? You do realize that that UAL paid insurance premiums to the PBGC (as do ALL ERISA plans) to back thier pensions, right? Would you expect USAA to deny a claim on your policy because it would just be a "bailout" for you?
This will all play out again in the coming months with Delta and Northwest - will you consider a corporation operating inside federal law a bailout?
I might be missing something, but just what bailouts has UAL seen?
Originally Posted by Bengalsfan
ps we are suppose to be on the same team guys
That sounds great, although I get the impression that what you really mean is that we're all on the same team as long as you have the good fortune (this week) to work for a "healthy" employer - and SCREW everyone else.
When legacy airlines fail, the glut of labor will only increase, and your right that the excess labor will drive wages down. For those low time/low experience pilots job market, if UAL, NWA, or DAL liquidate you may as well give up. Most pilots from those carriers will bag the aviation thing, although many will continue on in the industry providing a glut of HIGHLY experienced pilots.
You're entitled to your opinion, I respect that (and you for expressing your thoughts) although you quite obviously hit a nerve. One thing we both agree is Good Luck (to all of us).