Republics Pilot Union is the reason the Midwest pilots are "locked out" from integration.
Who's to Blame?
My feeling is the Republic Teamster EXCO is to blame. Its was done for the benefit of the Republic Pilots. If the Midwest pilots were integrated say 3 months after the June merger announcement, say October 1, Republic Airways would be furloughing pilots with 1-2 yrs experience verses furloughing 15-25 yr Midwest pilots.
I understand the Teamster desirer to gain Republic pilots jobs. I understand BB desire to keep the more junior pilots because they cost less. But it's not FAIR and EQUITABLE.
This was a merger. The SEC filing and BB statements prove it...
We are on track to close the Midwest merger by the end of July unless something unexpected surfaces. However, even after the deal closes, we have at least a 6 month transition process to work through to ensure we merge our airlines in a thoughtful and organized manner.
I hope the arbitrator can see through the actions of the Republic Teamsters. They have worked with BB to undermine the Midwest Pilots negotiations and then delayed the integration of the two airlines.