Oh, I whole heartedly agree. I too thought it was an interesting discussion, and facts were needed. Unfortunately, too many here were intent on stiffling discussion by utilizing the time honored stereotype of "Hey you condescending, egotistical Delta pilots go back to you own forum".

Now that the facts are out there both sided know where to put priorities during next contract negotiations.

UAL holds the upper hand here because pilots(negotiatiors ) can influence the manning formula side of the equation much more readily than they can company purchasing decisions.

Not a jab, just statement of fact from my perspective.