Great in theory, but ALPA Nat'l cannot collectively bargain against every airline in the U.S. at once. Each airline has different circumstances, which will inevitably create different pay scales, benefit's etc. For example, look at what United pilot's made in the year 2000, versus what they make now. For a carrier in deep financial trouble, (NWA is a prime example) unions are obviously going to be a little more giving at the negotiating table to ensure the airline's success, while a carrier like SWA is posting profit's, and giving labor pay raises. Here lies the biggest problem. Circumstances will vary from carrier to carrier, and from year to year. In a stable environment (regulation?), the idea of an across the board payscale would be possible, but not in todays airline industry. Airlines, and union's need flexibility when it comes to negotiations. The only option we, as pilot's have, is to elect people we trust and respect to our MEC, and to vote for what we feel is fair.