Just an idea for a resolution to the problem of scope.

The main carrier contracts other airlines to fly their routes....and this is reasonable, because the cost and liability of buying the aircraft and operating them..etc would be too much. The big problem...the pilots are all separate groups,separate training standards, seniority list (when mainline furloughs express pilots still flying)...etc. Let the main carrier contract out the express planes...they can take the expense and liability of owning the aircraft and they can make money for that. Make all the pilots mainline...that should be good for all. The main carrier gets the benefit of someone else taking the risk of owning the aircraft and the benefit of setting the training standards...the pilots get and increased pilot base....so when furlough time comes the ax falls on the new hire express pilots....as it should.