He said he is aware of recent development with American wholly owned carriers. However, he added that that the situation is different. American is heavily dependent on its regional carriers where as Delta is not as exposed. Management has to look at 'data points' that consider attrition, attrition at other companies, economy, inflation, fuel costs, and long term stability of EDV. He has to look out for pilots who wants to stay at EDV as well as to find a way to retain others who want to move on eventually. He is looking to mitigate lateral attrition while encouraging vertical attrition. He is looking to increase the flow to Delta. He mentioned shrinking in order to achieve this. He wants to stabilize the situation and wants EDV to stay around for a long time. He stated that Delta definitely prefers EDV pilots over other carriers and this is the place to be to go to Delta. (huh?) He understands that seniority/longevity is what the pilots want and he will advocate for that with Delta. But he then immediately added that this will be difficult due to current contract negotiations and management being not very receptive. He stated that the management is aware, and lookin at options but will need time. He again emphasized that no good solution will come fast since long term stability of the company is at priority and variables such as economy, inflation, fuel costs, developing situations in the airline industry must be taken into consideration.