I can only speak for my airline, but open time is a part of our negotiated contract. It is paid at 1.5 times normal pay and there are very strict rules about open trips being made available at this rate. That being said, staffing levels including reserve coverage are planned based on a certain level of open time being available and needing to be covered. It does not hurt the company to have reserves flying these trips as that was the plan all along. The reserves do not break guarantee and the flying is essential a freebie to the company. On the other hand, pilots pick up the flying at time and a half and now the company is having to pay 2.5 pay to fly that trip. They are paying the guy who picked it up 1.5 times and they are paying the reserve, who is now sitting at home, straight time. Now I don't think there is a single thing a pilot group can do to bring furloughs back. However, we can cost the company as much money as possible to fly the trips they need covered.
Additionally, before furloughs at my particular airline, we had open time. We have lost some flight hours and as a result have furloughed. The amount of open time has also proportionately dropped. Trust me, if we stop picking up open time, the company won't even blink. Open time is planned. Pick it up and take your company for as much money as you guys can squeeze out of them. If you don't, the company gets a free ride and your furloughed brothers and sisters are still no better off.
If not picking up open times satisfies your moral compass then don't pick it up and feel good that in your mind you are doing the right thing. Other people have different opinions though and that is their right too. This is like arguing religion. Polarizing views with no absolute proof of anything.
Additionally, before furloughs at my particular airline, we had open time. We have lost some flight hours and as a result have furloughed. The amount of open time has also proportionately dropped. Trust me, if we stop picking up open time, the company won't even blink. Open time is planned. Pick it up and take your company for as much money as you guys can squeeze out of them. If you don't, the company gets a free ride and your furloughed brothers and sisters are still no better off.
If not picking up open times satisfies your moral compass then don't pick it up and feel good that in your mind you are doing the right thing. Other people have different opinions though and that is their right too. This is like arguing religion. Polarizing views with no absolute proof of anything.