So the road shows are done, the brochures are crumpled and water stained in every kitchen. And we have about a week left to vote.
There is only a win or loss on the referendum, no "close."
I will continue to rant and rave for the entire week, but here is my outline.
This will pass by over 80%.
The MOU is simply the best contract language I have ever seen as a union member. Political foes came and went via elections, committee chairs were removed and replaced. But the professional negotiator prevailed, just as we had envisioned. Our entire legal team told the BPR we needed an MOU. We all know the result of the first iteration. Changes were made, and our guys did battle for MONTHS down at APA, and then WEEKS with the UCC and our own Management. Is it perfect? No. Is it better than Contract 98 or LOA 93. By a longshot. It is well written and well negotiated.
Change of Control was traded for the complete benefit of our ALL our pilots, not just Group II and above on the East. A 190 C/O at top of scale will be making 3 years from now what a 767 C/O makes today. Fair, No. But reasonable, Yes.
The APA guys are not our friends, but by signing this agreement we will share a foxhole. And by sharing that we will be a force of over 10k pilots. By staying equal in pay, we will not only prevent whip saw by Parker (looks like he is "the man" as of late reports) but will also give us equal footing if we go to arbitration on the seniority list. I hope we don't, I hope we come to some agreement with fences and restrictions.
Those that have attended the road shows with an open mind have come out assured the best work has been done, no matter what their vote. Those that have shunned elected office and always wanted to be the naysayers. Good job. It is important to have such rebuttal. But that is over.
Time to vote. Vote in consideration of the most likely outcome, not your worst fears. Were you to live your life that way you would never leave the house (and probably die of Radon.) Years of continued battle with management, working for the world's largest airline at a much better rate of pay? Or a vote for status quo, and fight Kirby and Parker until the end of our days at this little, tiny,(and let me be frank) soon to be regional carrier.
Pay attention. Vote accordingly.
Greeter