This ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

There are already too many fragments in the AS pilot group and now risk further separation based on SLI...this has got to stop so the combined pilot group can focus on better COLLECTIVE BARGAINING.

In all reality, there is likely but a smallest percentage of people who really seek to go fly "the other metal" considering aside from LAX, AS has a handful of central Cali or East Coast commuters to which the VA domicile of SFO or JFK is attractive or vice-versa.

Try to keep in mind that these merger talks pre-date the QX contract talks so management had to factor in a labor plan that would integrate into a future AS/VA operation. And that QX contract is a pretty jagged pill they were coerced into swallowing.

There needs to be 2400 very united and vigilant pilots ready to spot a turd contract pushed to a vote. The future 5th largest airlines pilot group needs to have a set of balls early or this future operation could have a painful quality of life through 2023.

 

They will be added to our contract....With an integration plan....no reason to touch our contract.....anything else is proof of coersion.....as if we need any

 

I can't find where it says that.

https://crewroom.alpa.org/ual/Deskto...cumentID=45274

 

You can't find anything that says the VA doesn't have a CBA?? How do you join two CBA's when only one exists??

The reason why it isn't in there is because it's common sense.

 

So you didn't read it.

 

He doesn't read. He just makes stuff up as he goes along.

 

To pay for this merger it is safe to say Alaska may not turn a profit for a few years. Nice way to head into negotiations with your pilot group.

 

I think Delta paid 3.2 Billion for Northwest. Alaska paid over 2 Billion for VX. I don't remember exactly how either deal was structured or if you can even compare the two, but on the surface, I'll bet Richard Branson is partying on his island after this week.

I hope it works out for all of you guys, I really do.

Just never forget, we are all in this business for the same reasons, no matter who we work for. Be respectful of each other.

 

And there you have it! As a VX Captain and ALPA supporter that is EXACTLY the attitude we all need. If management can fragment us (like USAir east vs. west) then they just might. No doubt I am going to lose total seniority BUT with almost 300+ aircraft and many more destinations, I really can't see it having any effect for some time.

I look forward to working with all of you.

 

Not totally true....with a no-compete clause in place for common routes, VA/AS can set a fare-pricing model against other competitors now...even as separate operations. Even with VA as a prior competitor, AS and recently VA have been profitable.

This was a largely cash transaction...money that was never set aside to fund labor contracts. The potential for greater profits are not foresaken on this transaction. Even if AS debts double as part of the integration of both operations, there is ZERO reason to expect concessions into the coming TA. The only thing that needs to change are the "I got mine/I need to get mine" yes-to-any-meager-pay-increase voters to be outnumbered by the visionary longer-term NO voters should the company try to push a insufficient contract across the table.

There is no whipsaw, there is no gloomy economic forecast, there is no reason to choke down an 8-yr contract or fear mgmt playing one pilot group against the other. Just be ready to COLLECTIVELY BARGAIN with a company who has been very profitable for more than a decade now.