Originally Posted by eaglefly (Post 1318076)

No, but the name 'American Airlines' is an iconic "brand" and it alone has value. I can't see them relinquishing that identity. If they did, someone else would be hot to snatch it and start up or change their carriers name to it.

In the case of this merger, in 5-7 years, it really becomes a merger of American Airlines and America West as virtually all the U East pilots will be gone (along with many from AA). That is ONE aspect I would think the APA would be communicating regarding seniority consideration of a post-fence airline and that is the crux of concern for most AA pilots that are concerned. I think fences would virtually eliminate windfall for the East pilots, but relatively junior West pilots could make end runs to the Widebodies.

We shall see.

Originally Posted by satpak77 (Post 1318100)

This brings up an excellent point. AA Brand recognition / etc is probably the most valuable part of this whole thing. More than routes, equipment, etc etc, which indeed generate money however big picture wise, brand is the most valuable asset AA has.

http://executiveeducation.wharton.up...your-brand.pdf

Originally Posted by eaglefly (Post 1318076)

but relatively junior West pilots could make end runs to the Widebodies.

We shall see.

Originally Posted by cactiboss (Post 1318113)

Huh? West pilots aren't relatively "junior", west pilots have been held from their rightful seats by the east pilots. I am all for a fence for the amr wide bodies, 7 years sounds fair to me. Combined retirements really make it a moot point anyways.

Originally Posted by eaglefly (Post 1318116)

I was speaking of a post merger, post fence snapshot after most of the East has retired and relative to far more senior AA pilots. Not everything in the world revolves around your East/West dispute you know.

Originally Posted by ForeverFO (Post 1318001)

The "NO to merger" thing is gaining some steam at AA. Most of the guys I talk to are very concerned about SLI and the inevitable closure of overlapping bases and assets, which knock fences down fast.

AA has the route structure and the fleet to go it alone, if not mismanaged, and if employees are treated as assets rather than labor cost units.

Originally Posted by Puros (Post 1318024)

Exactly- US Airways is toxic. All the pilots over there want is date of hire- that's all they parrot

Originally Posted by Wiskey Driver (Post 1318128)

Unless of course you have been living under a rock, AA is today nowhere near the new United and DAL has left the building. There is no way on earth that AA could compete with either of those carriers with its current size because if it were possible wouldnt they already be doing that?? Traditional growth thru a/c orders take years and AA is sitting on some of the oldest equipment in the business. I think a merger will happen because the smart money says its the best option.

WD at AWA

Originally Posted by eaglefly (Post 1318149)

I say we flush this toilet ASAP as it's stinking up the joint.