Originally Posted by
SpiraMirabilis
First year (probationary) employees ARE covered by every aspect of your CBA at every airline that I know of with the exception that you're not allowed to file a grievance if you're terminated.
Probationary pilots certainly enjoy the negotiated work rules and most benefits, but in the event of a disciplinary hearing and/or termination unions have very little traction (if any) to assist. In that respect they are "at will" employees.