Originally Posted by
jtf560
It isn't misleading if Flex is paid more. I have now seen multiple sources that seem to prove that Flex is better paid at least in the first many years since only a fraction of NJA pilots will beat them the first couple of years and the Flex pilots will upgrade quicker (I haven't seen any proof of higher seniority pay either way). That is honestly a good thing. I'm truly happy they got more money. We all deserve way more money. I just hope we don't mess it up and accept a weak new contract that doesn't raise the bar again. I can't believe I'm typing this, but my golden handcuffs will probably feel more like lead and finally come free if the next contract doesnt rise a similar percent as the airlines. Even a similar percent raise still keeps us behind, just not getting lapped.
It IS misleading when in public you say "lowest paid in the industry" and then you have people who admit to having the trailer say "it wasnt meant for flex, rather Delta, United....." and then others say how much more NJ pilots are making over Flex. Can we just agree on this:
1. Starting base pay is higher at Flex than NJ?
2. NJ is in the SAME industry as Flex?
3. If 1 and 2 are correct, then MAYBE NJ is paid less (however you are then saying every other 135 operator is not in the same "industry" as NJ and thats not fair) then put your trailers away.
4. If NJ IS paid more than FLex, than the pickets and trailers are at BEST misleading since the best comparision in the "industry" is FLEX (last I checked, DElta, UA, AA are NOT 91k).
I know you all are NJ pilots and want the best of both worlds to come on here and bash flex saying you make way more money than FLex but are in a different industry than flex (?) and then go to public and say you are the lowest paid in the "industry"....just be consistant and say its a Union tactic to give you a better contract. If you were paid more than AA, UA and not delta, you would currently be making the arguement you are lowest paid "in the industry" of Delta vs. NJ. One reason why I dont like Unions. I dont need a "group" to negotiate a contract. If I dont like the contract, I am free to find other employment. THAT is my negotiating power.
I am willing to offer this. Give me a NEW NJ pilot (anyone as a initial hire in a light/mid jet since the begining of the year), lets compare W2s at the end of the year. If you are willing to accept this challenge, let me know. We will average the pay from date of hire through Dec 31. I will put up $1,000 to your charity (and you mine) if the GROSS income on your W2 at NJ is higher than mine at FLEX. Anyone???? If not, then PLEASE protest saying you are the lowest paid 91k operator and negotiate a fantastic new contract, all boats rise with the tide. I anticipate crhickets........