No matter how this SLI pans out, if one group of pilots is really P***ed and the other group is really happy, it was a poorly executed integration. I also am not in favor of bending over and just taking it because we have our first contract either. Frankly, any Mesaba pilot that was furloughed at the time of the purchase should feel fortunate to have a job. They shouldn't have an axe to grind if they are placed at the bottom of the list between those pilots on the property and any new-hires. I am not saying that I like that scenario either, but that is the precedent that has been used before in these deals. However, under the LOA. Mesaba's furloughees received preferential and will retain their original XJ seniority.
Sooner or later the honeymoon with this merger is going to be over and some people are going to feel like ALPA, the company, etc... all conspired to screw them. I don't think that is truly the case, but more a case of life just isn't always fair...