I understand where you're coming from. BUT -- the above statement would sum up my feelings pre 2002. Since then I've recognized that the companies 'bottom line', the executives 'bottom line', and my 'bottom line' are NOT the same. Worrying about the company bottom line leads me to believe that you think our (pilots) actions have some kind of material effect on our bottom line. I only wish it were that simple! In fact, oft times it is an inverse relationship. I would, and did, share your outlook when the company gave something back when they were successful. It's NOT just UA that is like this, it is corporate America that is moving in this direction.
Obviously nobody wants to work for a company that is not successful. I think FAR too many pilots see themselves as being more important that they really are. You are kidding yourself if you think that CAL mgmt hasn't made strategic decisions about how they will handle their unions/workforce. In the recent past they have clearly chosen a different strategy than UAs current mgrs. They can, and will, steer the company ANY way they want -- regardless of the pilots actions. They are operating (if they're smart) at a level far above where we operate. While many think UA was flailing in the wind for several years I contend that they were doing EXACTLY what they wanted to do. Sure, some of their actions appeared nonsensical from our point of view, but they WERE driving in the direction they intended. A lot of us thought Tilton was an idiot, or a failure, and couldn't understand WHY the BOD would keep him in place. Most took the simple view that since he put those folks on the board that they would do whatever he wanted...no matter how bad he was for the company. No, he was doing a FINE job...most of us just didn't know, or couldn't accept, what that job was. It's just business. They wanted mercenary pilots and that's what I am. I fly for a paycheck and do the best job I can. I don't owe any special allegiance to my employer since they didn't do me any favor by hiring me -- it's a business arrangement, I provide a skill that they need. My allegiance is to my profession. I'm a professional airline pilot and will act accordingly. Plea's for help based on loyalty to my employer will be met with the lack of consideration they deserve. Plea's to do things to 'help the bottom line' are BS. I enjoy flying and am pretty easy going at work, so don't get the idea that I'm a dog kicking complainer. I just have a different viewpoint when it comes to this JOB.


You too. I'm actually looking forward to working with you guys.