Originally Posted by Verdell

I feel like pointing out that 16% vs 17%/18% in 401k contributions, versus say, raising base pay by 1%-2%, are basically the same thing.

To pose a question:

Would you rather have:

1) a 2% raise to base pay

or

2) 2% higher 401k contributions?

The answer varies to each individual's scenario. The 2% raise will increase overall compensation more. The 2% higher 401k *might* lower overall tax burden on that extra money, despite lower overall compensation.

My point being, it doesn't make sense to say that "401k contributions weren't raised quickly enough therefore older pilots were left out" while simultaneously disregarding base pay increases.