As this thread continues in a moot point mode... there are decent, hard-working US Airways ramp employees in the process of getting hired by Southwest Airlines. Even prior to the merger, America West was the "training ground" for future Southwest employees..countless numbers of people went there are all say it was THE BEST move they made. If you love the ramp and aren't afraid to work hard, go SOUTHWEST. Some of us love what we do but hate the way US treats us. We would gladly stay with US, but the business model at US does not support employees whatsoever, and neither does the IAM DL141. Why there is even a "Human Resources" department is baffling. US treats its employees poorly in every work group, the accepted practice of employee contact is founded around negative reinforcement. The union representing Fleet Service is inept and devoid of true leadership, therefore, just as bad as the company. What a trainwreck the combination is. Glad to be furloughing out of this poophole. Retention of good employees is not in the model, so, being a good airline will never happen.... remember, your only as good as your weakest link! Mediocrity is the BEST US will ever be and even that is pushing the envelope. Good Luck!