Also, it’s not the mediator who releases the parties, it’s the NMB. First they proffer arbitration and then comes the 30 day cooling off period. This is not something that will happen overnight.

But, for the sake of discussion, let’s say SF’s scenario comes to pass and the NMB releases the parties. We, the pilots, now have two choices. Capitulate or Fight. By capitulating the war is already lost but we will problem still have jobs. If we fight (strike) there is the chance the company would cry uncle OR, more likely, the President could convene a PEB. In the end Congress could dictate our contract. I’d much rather fight/strike and take the chance than capitulate. Full disclosure I am in the last few years of my career. Others may feel different. I guess that’s why a strike vote is taken....

Denny