So what's the fix people?

Here is a thought no matter how idealistic it may be...

When mainline pilots negotiate there new contracts they have pay rates for 50/70+ seat aircraft in section 6. Frankly anything with a fan hanging off the side of it should be included so that these crap companies don't bs their way around it.

They then require anyone flying aircraft in their colors to be paid at those rates. They also require the same work rules for anyone flying aircraft in their colors as they get. This essentially takes pilot wages and work rules off of the negotiating table amongst the regional airlines to haggle over.

This would take away the race to the bottom and be a start to bringing professional pilots together under one contract.

It may also take away the desire for a mainline carrier to out source the flying and bring more jobs to the mainlines.

Just a passing thought.