But, with that being said -- in a wierd, round-about way -- the reason why most NWA guys aren't really thrilled with the argument that DAL's retirements start to exceed NWA's in 10 to 12 years, is because alot if not most of the NWA guys are the ones who are going to be the ones leaving.
New K Now
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New: I agree and sympathize with your position. The fate of the age-demographically identical 1985 hires from both airlines is the prime example. The most senior (Sept.) 1985 DL hire is slotted in at 409 on the combined list. The NW Sept.1985 hire is slotted in at 2892 on the combined list, a difference of 2483 positions between two identical hire dates and (statistically) identical ages. Though both retained almost their exact relative seniority percentage, (which is only fair) no doubt the DL pilot will enjoy
somewhat increased opportunity for advancement (he already easily holds 777 capt.) in the next 10 years due to NW attrition, while the equivalent hire date NW pilot will suffer
somewhat decreased opportunity (compared to stand-alone) based on the same (NW) attrition (he still could hold or will shortly be able to hold, in theory, 767ER WB capt. at DL)