We (Hawaiian) recently signed our latest contract with substantial improvements. We never could have done it without ALPA. The help we got from them is far to numerous to list here. But plane and simple, we could not have done it on our own. In addition, the fact that Alaska recently made gains ahead of us and then their leadership was very forthcoming in helping us was quite beneficial. Our companies may compete, but beyound that we are all pilots with the same goals. Again, thanks to ALPA. (and thanks AK).
Also important to note, Hawaiian is doing well now. This has not always been the case. Over the years we have gone through 2 bankruptcies, had to many owners and management teams to remember. In fact, we began the de-regulation era competing with an airline that was started by ex Hawaiian execs, who got their money from Hawaiian and started up a non union airline charging $9.95 inter-island with the intent of putting us out of business. I could go on and on with the challenges made to Hawaiian and our contract. But the bottom line is, even in the tough times, we managed to hang on to a lot of what was important to us, including retirement, through some very lean years and shady management practices. Without ALPA, no way around it, we would be way worse off and a few execs probably would be way better off.
ALPA is not perfect, it's just a vehicle for pilots to try to do what is best for many as opposed to individuals trying to help themselves.
Also important to note, Hawaiian is doing well now. This has not always been the case. Over the years we have gone through 2 bankruptcies, had to many owners and management teams to remember. In fact, we began the de-regulation era competing with an airline that was started by ex Hawaiian execs, who got their money from Hawaiian and started up a non union airline charging $9.95 inter-island with the intent of putting us out of business. I could go on and on with the challenges made to Hawaiian and our contract. But the bottom line is, even in the tough times, we managed to hang on to a lot of what was important to us, including retirement, through some very lean years and shady management practices. Without ALPA, no way around it, we would be way worse off and a few execs probably would be way better off.
ALPA is not perfect, it's just a vehicle for pilots to try to do what is best for many as opposed to individuals trying to help themselves.
