Crew resources keeps going back and forth.
One thing that is of importance that no one has mentioned is credit. DAL's ability to obtain a few billion in loans for these new aircraft may be affected by the mess on Wall street. Hopefully, not, but I am sure that this mess has given our leaders pause. Taking out these types kind of loans for the new 777LR's is something that may not be needed if things really go in the crapper.
I am not saying it is being discussed, just that our credit rating may take a hit along with everyone else.

The company code a phone stated to expect a fairly large bid in Oct. It will combine the Aug and Dec bids. Backfill is not a option of crew resources. They have to comply with the contractual manning formula. If enough pilots bid out of a category such that it will put it below the manning formula they have to fill those slots. They can fill them on that bid or post a clean up bid but either way the result is the same. If a category is shrinking then they would not replace pilots leaving. Aircraft financing is normally locked in at the time you confirm the order. The 777's coming in the spring are on the production line. Tough to cancel them now however they could be sold. Delta did that with some 737-800's that were firm orders several years ago.

I agree with that. I was not referring to these. I was referring to the added ones that are in 2010.

I've been trying to decifer the contract, but can't find it.

How long can a pilot NOT on furlough take military leave before he/she loses their slot? How long can a pilot on furlough be on military leave after being called back?

Thanks.

generally speaking, you can take mil leave 1) anytime, and 2) up to 5 years ... so i dont think it would be any different in this case?

And remember that DAL loves the military.

It generally is five years. Most will take three to five, come back requal and then take another three to five. I have a bud that has been doing that for some time

This is the last place I would ask for that kind of advice. I would contact legal in your military unit. As far as the furlough issue it is 10 years in the contract that you can be furloughed. Military leave is generally 5 years however there are many exceptions including time served in combat zones, types of orders ect... Again contact your military legal. Don't take my advise or any forum advise on something this important.

Quite True, and it is Federal Law. It is not negotiated.

I appreciate the reponse. Just considering some options thats all. I figured it was five but I had a Capt tell me 10 ... and that didn't sound right.

Thanks

The latest and "Greatest" about Delta is I work here and not at AW/USAIR. Have you read that thread lately?

On the Mil leave, one guy in my squadron 7 years from Cont after he was recalled. He just asked for 7 (time till retirement) and they gave it to him. Been told that 5 is the law but it doesn't hurt to ask.