Originally Posted by waflyboy

I know it's a bit off topic and a little late, but I've got to say it:

I disagree. Airline passengers have such a small amount of contact with their pilots, it leads me to believe the level of professionalism displayed from the flight deck is nearly inconsequential. Perhaps more importantly, I still believe the vast majority of the flying public is unaware of the "professionalism" issue. Awareness is obviously a requisite for behavioral change here.

Increasing "professionalism" among pilots will have no significant impact on demand for air travel. To think it will is, in my opinion, self-serving foolery. Business and pleasure travelers alike will fly when they feel it's worth it to spend the money. And the airline they travel on will continue to be largely dependent on the order in which flights are listed on Priceline.com. (lowest price to highest price)

Also, some have suggested this proposal will improve pilot compensation. I'd like to believe this, but I am again doubtful. Market forces have degraded compensation, and market forces will be required to improve it. With so many well-qualified airmen currently out of work, I feel it will take many years to shore up excess supply. Perhaps by then the FAA will have adopted the new ICAO multi-pilot crew concept, and exempt them from the 1,500 hour rule. This may again break down the barriers of entry and flood the ranks with "qualified" newly minted commercial pilots. But in the mean time, the folks who stack the deck will continue to transform high-time 737 pilots into RJ drivers.

I support this legislation because I believe it has the potential to improve safety. But I don't indulge in the delusion that it may improve my pay and quality of life.