I disagree for two reasons:
1) That "staple on" is a pipe dream. I'm happy to place a bet with you on that point.
2) If it did happen, I'd be happy for my old classmates and likely still beat their earnings across MY timeline (I only have 9 years left). The difference between AA and SWA on earnings across that timeframe isn't much different and my QoL is a LOT better.

A lot of people like to focus exclusively on "hourly rate".. That is VERY short sighted. There is a lot more to this life/career than $ per hour. This new contract (we just passed today) evens the NB playing field so $s are equal. Our soft money (ability to earn extra) and QoL flexibility is superior. I can work my line and get 17-19 days off and just get min guarantee.. our do a little pick up (living in base rocks) and do much better. And now we are getting extra payments if the company jacks our schedule around (line change override), etc. And our NEC (non-elective contributions to 401k) as aligned with the legacies.

I feel pretty confident in my move.