I've not heard the term "acquisition" used anywhere but here. I hear the word "merger" used very frequently. The outcome of pilots debating semantic terms is nothing more than a diversion for bored pilots. I do believe that in the long run, both Delta and NWA pilots will see gains from this transaction.
The NWA pilots will have to adjust to the Delta way of doing things. Delta's flight standards, uniforms, policies and procedures remain after the transaction. There is not any point in fighting it. Others may have been harsh, but it will be a lot easier for NWA pilots to accept what they can not change.
What is more relevant is the objective changes in fleet numbers, the SLOA allowing Delta MD88 pilots to fly over their ALV caps, canceled displacements and growth aircraft. I am more interested in how arbitrators meet their obligation to meet, or improve on, status quo.
Frankly, at the junior end of the list, that is going to be difficult work. Delta's 2007 hires are holding (block in NWA speak) lines on the 757 and 767 both domestic and international. On the MD88's they are pretty senior in the right seat. Another big advanced entitlement for growth comes out on the DAL side in October. It looks possible that a few out of the class of 07 may even get on the 777, or MD88A in NYC. Those results should be available before the arbitration is final. (not that I'm leaving any facts out about NWA, I just don't know if you are doing advancement bids)
If past results are useful for prediction of future outcomes then I expect relative seniority, by equipment. That still does not address the base issues, but if given the choice between NYC, MSP, or DTW, they are about a toss up. I think we will all miss NWA's commuting language.
JMHO