Some supporters of the Teamsters believe that if Colgan pilots vote in ALPA we will be stapled to the bottom of the Pinnacle seniority list and they'll limit our scope to 34-seat flying. This is untrue. Pinnacle pilots want to insure management will NOT be able use Colgan as a whipsaw. An integrated seniority list is the solution.
In the event of a merged seniority list and scope issues, it will be the PILOTS of Colgan negotiating with the PILOTS of Pinnacle. Voting in ALPA fosters a good relationship between the two pilot groups for the ensuing negotiations. It is a sign of solidarity among the two pilot groups and hurts the chances of management to use us against one another.
ALPA is a professional organization for pilots, while the IBT represents a variety of professions. Which is better suited to negotiate a contract for airline pilots that includes per diem for day trips, block or better per leg, and extension pay? Which is better suited to represent an AIRLINE pilot when faced with legal issues from the FAA or company?