Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't the Midwest pilots offered to fly the 170's, when Republic arrived on to the scene (initially)? Wouldn't that have been a reason to start the negotiations (integration) before the Frontier deal was on the radar scope? Or did this all happen together - if so, wouldn't it have been a logical step for the Republic guys to try to integrate everyone that had a 'dog in the fight'?

Was it obvious that the 717's were going away, or was that a surprise on the YX side of the house? I'm asking, 'cause I'm trying to understand the WHOLE situation.