It seems like US Airways example is something we should all be learning from in terms of retirement and job security.
1988 DOH being furloughed having been a captain at a major U.S. airline is a big wake-up call to all of us. I really feel for the guys who've lost their retirement. It has been a big wakeup call for me. At Aloha, we have an A-plan retirement with 1.8% multiplier. We have a B-plan with 7% company contribution, and 401(k). Even though our retirement is funded up to date, I'm not planning on collecting ANY of it having seen how US Air guys got hosed. One just never knows... It will be a great 7 digit surprise at the end of the road if it's still there, but I'm doing my own investments for retirement and plan on not having an airline retirement.
As for TWA/AA deal... it is criminal what was done to TWA, but that's another can of worms.