I've always said that these are just my opinions...
But I have gone to LEC meetings where the Union has said it will take a while before we see a new contract.
We still have to get the company's counter proposal on economics and there are other sections still being discussed not to mention a few sections that were agreed upon that many have issues with already!
All I have to do is look at other carriers and see that it can take Years to get to mediation but then again, where there is a will.. maybe there is a way.
How long did it take HA for their new contract? LUV?
How long has AA been negotiating? UAL?
I think our timing will be good in 2011 because of an improving Global economy and the entrance of the 787.
That plus continued and worsting employee/management relations plus pressure from Star will hopefully allow for a decent CBA (for all groups- Pilots,Mechanics and Flight Attendants) sometime next year.
If you know more, that's great. But I do not believe a Rep can say-
"we will have a new CBA on x date".. they may be able to give their personal opinion (like I am) but that's about it.
Jeff S could come out tomorrow and say to Jay P- "hay, let's meet and gets this done!" It benefits the company greater to get it done now and hit the summer running than to drag it out. But after looking at this bid, we know how the company is playing this.
Increased aircraft, increased utilization, added routes and flights yet-
projected 4 retirements for the year and less pilots now than 2 years ago!
Gonna be a long summer and a long year. Oh Well~
motch