Ya'll better read the scheduling section in detail before you vote yes! If you do vote yes, look forward to 5 day trips. It's in there, among many other bad things. Look beyond the bonus and pay raises ASA pilots. Voting NO!
Hoser
In a conversation with BOTH my capt reps, I mentioned this issue regarding Pete, the scheduling committe et.al. Here's the answer I got.
The power invested in the scheduling committe chairman is done so by our current elected reps. This representative has a place or say so in scheduling line construction. He/she is put there to look out for the best interest of the pilot group and reports to the MEC. His/her power is NOT UNCHECKED. While he/she "does" have the power to approve 5 day trips, it is when and only when it is believed to be in the best interest of the pilot group. If the scheduling rep does approve such trips, he/she answers directly to the MEC. (better be a darn good reason was the exact quote from a capt rep)
Another consideration; 5 day trips are totally legal right now. THEY HAVE ALREADY BEEN USED. They were implemented for a while on the CR7 when it flew out west. The new TA actually IMPROVES their implentation because we actually have a say on when and how they're used as opposed to what we have now.
Would you complain about a line built with 5 day trips if it were constructed as follows? 5 days on, 5 days off, repeat for a total of 15 on 15 off with say 27 hours each for a total of 81 hours and commutable on both sides. For good measure consider the possibility of duty rigs boosting the credit value a little....or not.
I'm simply saying that in a cafeteria format, if "some" choices like that were offered, I have a feeling there would be some who would LOVE to have them. (though not me, I just see the value of the choice)
I WOULD NEVER want this to be the norm or majority of the line construction. That's why I would want a rep in there helping to keep the cafeteria menu varied for EVERYONE. I agree Hoser that NOONE should have too much unchecked power. Perhaps others might also consult with our reps regarding how much empowerment and accountability is being given to this scheduling chairman postition.