The decision by this arbitrator was so bizarre that even the company was shocked. The arbitrator completely disregarded the clear intent of the stipulation and tortured and parsed the word "employed." According to this idiot, the company could furlough every single AA pilot and not trigger the floor. While arbitrators decisions are normally pretty unchangeable, this decision is so crazy that it's being taken to court.

With regards to AE, AMR knows that the 50 seaters are essentially obsolete. In their openers to the pilot contract, they're demanding 1 for 1 replacement of 50 seaters with 70 seat class airplanes. Strangely, however, no mention of 100 seat class airplanes at all. AE is economically dead unless they can break the APA, like UAL and DAL have broken ALPA, which is exactly what they're trying to do. As usual, AA so-called management is in deep buffet and out of ideas and altitude. They've got three contracts up right now and all three unions are livid.