Originally Posted by
Carl Spackler
If this goes to arbitration, you won't be making an argument against a slotted SLI. The Delta side will need to be making arguments against straight Date of Hire and no fences. The NWA side will be making arguments against a straight mathematical ratio and no fences.
You seem to think that a slotted SLI represents an extreme position, it does not. The two positions mentioned above are the extreme ones, and as such, will be the two sides' positions in arbitration.
Carl
Carl a straight mathematical ratio or ratios is not an extreme position it is in fact the outcome of the last arbitrated seniority list (America West and US Air). NW might have to argue against a list constructed by current pay rates or a list which accounts for less fuel efficient aircraft or a list which fully encompasses future growth from the business plans or a list which takes into account all three of those factors. What if the process delays and Northwest pilots start to get furloughed when the freighters are parked and Delta is hiring pilots to fill 777-LR slots? What if a few more DC-9's are parked when Delta gets more 737-700's and MD-90's? How many pilots will get furloughed then. You don't think it could worse for your pilots, but it could get very much worse. Maybe you are comfortable in the left seat of your Whale but a lot of your more junior pilots might not be so comfortable.
A mathematical ratio or ratios is not an extreme position, it is going to be the outcome of an arbitration if there is one. Get used to it. The sooner you guys get on board the sooner you can join in the growth at Delta. If your MEC is afraid to make the decision then it will be done for them sometime a few years from now. If that happens then it will be a shame. You have already thrown away a bunch of money, how much worse does it have to get before your MEC will do what they need to do.