The regionals pay more first year for one reason and one reason only.

They have no choice.

Our classes are full and there’s a line out the door. So clearly management does not see a burning need to improve first year pay.

And frankly, we have more important issues that need to be addressed with our limited negotiating capital during the next round of negotiations.

I agree with the NC. First year pay is a management function, not the union.

Would I love to see a higher first year pay? Of course. Everyone here would.

Am I willing to give up negotiating capital for it instead of, say, Calendar Day rigs? Or redeye override? Or removing the “international destinations” limitation?

Nope. And neither would anyone else already on property.