First Amendment,
That is an outstanding post. I don't agree 100% with ALL of it, but you are on the right path here. My only split is in the model you wish to emulate--I think Alaska or HP would be a better model than JetBlue. If you close clubs, get rid of 1st, etc., you will rely too heavily on leisure travelers. Those customers who travel all the time for business count on the amenities. While I would be happy with more leg room on most flights instead of an F cabin, on long flights it would be preferred. Also, the clubs are a necessity for most business travelers--and I do believe that most of them are profitable.
You are right on the money otherwise--the bickering and infighting has to stop. ALL parties should work on a common goal--the survival and GROWTH of the airline. I firmly believe it CAN be done. The management has to think outside the box--we don't need GO FARES, we need FAIR fares (I have been saying this all along). We may actually get this as DL is about to go system wide with their rational fare structure and I think US will have to go along). It is possible to make a profit with the right fare structure, while still offering the business travelers the amenities they expect.
On the subject of contracts again you are right on the money--the archaic work rules MUST be changed. I don't care who cleans the airplane, as long as it gets done. I don't care WHO loads the bags as long as the customer gets his bag at the destination. There is no more place in this world for such stupid PI**ING contests. If someone won't or can't do their job then someone else should help. I am tired of sitting at PHL waiting for a gate when the captain announces there is no one to park us while I see 4 rampers at the next gate drinking coffee and reading the paper--turns out they won't get off their duffs because we're not in their zone? BULL. Do the Job!
Enough ranting. Congratulations on a fantastic post!!!
PS It would be an honor to be on one of your flights.
My best to you all and HAPPY NEW YEAR......