Originally Posted by
eaglefly
Be VERY careful phrog.
I've learned this forum is primarily a mainline pilots forum when scope is the subject and if you make any comments in favor of these aircraft for your carrier, you'll be targeted and will end up in a bash fest. Chances are it will be perceived YOU are the cause and will face the discipline. Many of these pilots expect you to either shut up about it, or capitulate to their way of thinking. It appears there is no middle ground or room for difference of opinion. I've had my posts removed that were "murky" in violation of forum rules, while others have had posts remain that included direct insults and attacks that are supposedly violations, but apparently acceptable because of their what can only be perceived as their approved direction.
As one who's been to the woodshed here before, my advice is to either have this discussion/debate on another forum more tolerant of differences of opinion regarding scope from both many members and at least one moderator or don't say much and only listen to the accepted argument here. I'm on 3 other forums and have never had any of the problems I've had here but have had similar discussions including strong disagreement.
I'm already a perceived bad boy here, so take it from me. In fact, THIS post will probably seen as "flamebait" resulting in more discipline, but it seems everything I say is flamebait, simply because another may disagree with it and I'm a senior regional pilot.
I am quoting this because the truth in the argument is about the target market. I won't go as far to say there is a NEED for the 76-100 seat aircraft in the market, but I will say that these aircraft make financial sense (lowering capacity/lower operating cost). I would LOVE to see what AA projects the acquisition and integration of these aircraft would cost versus the expected future cash flow. Without all the numbers in hand, I have a feeling these E170 E190 need to come on AMR property in some fashion for them to stay competitive.
Most people here understand that these aircraft are very much in competition with MD80s and maybe even 737s on some routes. Mainline pilots are rightfully concerned. The question is two fold. Who is going to fly them? How much will they get paid?
The "who will fly them?" question is sticky. If AA pilots hold firmly on scope, either Eagle will have to be divested totally, or AA pilots will fly them. I don't think the pilots can decide the "who." Just influence it a little.
The "how much will they get paid?" question is one where pilots DO ultimately have the most authority. Of course work rules and benefits come into play here as well.
When debating the pay issue, I think it would best serve our understanding if we compared it within normal ranges or even just minimums. 75hrs/month x pay rate. Stay away from what is possible. What you could possibly make is misleading.