Originally Posted by flyprdu

Imagine pattern bargaining is like a 400m relay. You don't lead off with your slowest runner, nor do you anchor with your slowest. Optimally, you place them somewhere in the middle.

Alaska has the most ground to gain in this race, and it will be less than optimal for them to start first.

We'll see soon enough if we achieve parity+, but we are running a risk of being left behind by faster runners by going first.

Also, the pilot shortage is recession proof.