The whole problem with bringing the pilots to the mainline is it not just the pay rates of the pilots that has to be considered. It’s the ENTIRE cost of the pilot contract. Even though AA contract total compensation lags United and Delta, even with the new pay rates, total compensation (retirement, healthcare, etc) at the regional level is below that of mainline. You also have to consider the total compensation for flight attendants and expense of the hotels that are provided on the regional level verses mainline for both pilots and FAs. Let’s not forget mechanics, and dispatchers.

As long as keeping flying out of mainline can save a penny, it will remain to be so.