Wow, not something I would consider doing, but I wish him well. Maybe he has plans to move to a DAL base in the future, but it is still such a risky move considering the tradeoff in seniority. It's not like other industries where one can jump ship to another company that's offering them a $10k with more time off. Seniority doesn't work that way. There are so many alternatives to leaving for a guy like that can change his mindset. Changing airframes, downgrading, or trying to be an LCA come to mind.

I think what happens to a lot of guys is they hear all the good their friends talk about airline X and how much better it must be than where they're working. I am not military, but I imagine all the good gets hyped up in these "units" and makes the outsiders feel inadequate. Also, a lack of experience in the workforce can make one have unrealistic expectations. I have flown with many pilots who have done nothing than fly for work since college. While it's great to have known early on you wanted to fly, it also limits your view on how bad others have it.

Like others have said, politics and "ineptitude" are everywhere, in the good and bad times, but get more attention during the bad. I am frustrated too that a deal hasn't been done, but it takes patience and solidarity with other pilots to get it done. It will happen, but throwing in the towel by leaving or accepting inadequate offers is not the way. Complaining on here will do nothing but stress you out.