I think that's an idea that could catch on.......eliminating check airman that is

FWIW, I haven't heard anything other than the usual rumors based on conversations with a very well connected non-pilot at Alaska. I wouldn't read too much into the (above) reply as it's a pretty common "non-answer" from management types. The CEO has a responsibility to make an announcement that could affect stock price to all shareholders simultaneously. Most management guys who have been there for more than a week are also pretty good at skirting denial as it's sometimes read as confirmation.

In other words, believe it when you see it in a press release.