Originally Posted by
Fly90
Definitely my biggest concern as a SWA pilot. I have a feeling we are going to get left in the dust on the next contract cycle while UA and DL continue to progress. I drive to work, so I can’t complain too much, but I have my concerns about whether or not SWA was the right decision for a long career.
I don’t think you can make a wrong decision going to any of the Big 3.
As in this last contract cycle, things have normalized to the point where airline management view labor costs as a cost of doing business. There is no competitive advantage to be gained by trying to control costs on the labor side through negotiations and they know it. Airline management is looking to increase revenue. If there are any trade offs made in future contract cycles, it will be for them to leverage current restrictions in our contract that prevent them from bringing more cash in the door. SWAPA still owns all the scope. That's a huge competitive advantage for SWA pilots. I am not suggesting we give it all up, but as in C2012, things can be relaxed in exchange for benefits, money, or work rules.