Originally Posted by
Pilotpip
Bond,
I really think you have a few internet commandos here stereotyped into the entire pilot group. I think you'll be surprised.
A vast majority of us aren't on our first airline. A vast majority of us weren't hired with ink still drying on our commercial rating. We see what's up. Bedford's brainwashing isn't targeted at us. It's directed at the other employees and does a pretty good job painting us as greedy SOBs (Heller's is even worse). I really do believe most of us see through it. Our rates suck. However 500 pilots flying 135s and 145s in 2003 could not have seen this coming. That's the price we paid for scope. Looking at how bad the situation is at TSA and for that matter, Midwest, I'll take the hit for a few more months.
I'll vote no on any TA that doesn't include significant pay an QOL increases on all equipment we fly.
Why stop at Jet Blue rates?
You're right, there are a couple of Bedford cheerleaders here, and it's not fair of me to categorize everyone there as such. I understand the dynamics of the current contract (03) and don't think anyone there post signing should take the blame. I just hope you're right. More than anything, I think guys have to realize that a good contract comes with an element of risk, but it will benefit us all. If you guys get mainline rates, it will do two very positive things for all of us in the industry.
First it will send the message that if you want mainline aircraft at the "regional" level, they have to pay mainline rates (so leave them at mainline).
Two, in the unlikely event that anyone else tries and succeeds at bringing these birds into the regional world, with mainline rates, at least we can all make a decent living; seeing as bringing these birds to the regional would deteriorate career progression to the majors.
Best of luck to you guys, I will reserve my judgment until all the cards are dealt, and I really truly hope you're right.