(1) Think you are observing pilots who came to Delta from regional carriers who had expectations that life on reserve at Delta would be better than life on reserve at a "regional." The fact that the Delta contract is substandard to regional contracts negotiated in the late 1990's is part of the reason for the kibitzing. Objectively, the 24 hour international reserve, lack of premium pay, lack of daily credit for short call, and low reserve guarantee are (were) better at our DCI carriers (and also characteristics of domestic flying in a limited route network as opposed to global operations). The f-NWA also have some pretty good reasons for pining their old contract, while forgetting some of the real improvements they've seen. Rose colored glasses are human nature.

(2) Most thinking Delta pilots would like an affirmative statement from their MEC expressing the opinion that ALL DELTA JOBS ARE VALUABLE. The concept that some jobs are better than others leads to negotiations which inevitably place the representation of one pilot superior to the representation of another pilot who is inferior. As a union, ALPA has a duty to treat all of its members equally.

I know what you were getting at, but we need to stop seeing a DC9 FO as different than a 747 Captain. Every Delta job is important. Every Delta pilot represented gives our MEC the same power and leverage at the bargaining table. The slice of the pie we represent is our relevance.

----

Despite the complaining, not many pilots are leaving Delta. It is a good place to work. Like you, every one here is motivated to make it better. Sitting near the coaches it might sound like we guys in the cheap seats are complaining, but believe me, there is no better game in town to have a seat at. Certainly I appreciate the work every one does, but continuous improvement means never settling.