Originally Posted by Voski

To your point, it's a widely held belief that JetBlue's attempt to acquire Spirit is largely about adding more pilots to property. Sure, there's probably some synergies with network and the NEO order book is worth something, but make no mistake, pilot retention is a huge issue at the low cost carriers. With the news today that the F9/NK deal is likely to prevail per Spirit's BOD, this paints JetBlue into a precarious situation. On the current trajectory, Southwest could find themselves in dire straits if they don't get a handle on the operation and pilot recruitment. Because SWA doesn't have quick upgrades, total benefits package, airframe diversity / 737s that millennials don't want to fly, widebody international flying, rapid seniority gain, retirements, etc., Southwest is going to need a sexy contract to attract people to being FOs on the guppy for 10-15 years. Southwest isn't bad, but just about everywhere else looks more attractive on paper.