I might not be of much help but I'll give it a shot:
Not sure... right now upgrade revolves around our current delivery schedule and your seniority. By Dec, 36 airplanes+360 pilots=about 180CA/180FO. Counting management pilots and attrition, anyone under about #190-200 should upgrade in Dec08/Jan09. After that it's pure attrition, I'm guessing a few a month max, unless we are awarded any of the other 18 options (could be us or XJ or both or neither). I think right now we're up to about 230-240 or so pilots, so only time will tell.
Haven't been here long, but from what I've seen so far, pretty good. The people here are great! Management treats us well and everyone seems pretty happy and friendly. Lots of diverse experience and a lot of talent. I think the good general attitude of this company and it's employees is one of our strongest suits.
Again, haven't been here long, but from my personal experiences so far, NW pilots have acted professional and courteous. I've politely asked for a NW jumpseat home/to work on three occasions (DC-9's and A320's no less) and have been granted them each time, along with the usual small talk with the crew. They may have very well b1tched and grumbled about it after the cockpit door shut, but in public and in my presence they maintained their professionalism. Kudos to to the NWA guys!
(On a side note, Compass is under the NWA MEC - I'm still a little confused myself as to the exact logistics, but we're just another LEC under NWA's MEC.)
Myself and the world wonders with you....
Hopefully because of our cost structure/performance/newer fleet, the wholly-owned NW groups (CP,XJ) will fare well. But who knows?
If you'd like any more info PM me and I'll do what I can.
Good luck with your search!