Hello,
In reviewing the information contained on both
www.colgancares.com and colganpilotgroup.com I find myself pondering a couple of facts. First, why does the Colganpilotgroup site link to a couple of sites that have information on an alternate union? OK, these guys have an axe to grind against becoming members of ALPA, but ultimately this IS a managment ploy to dilute the vote to make NO union is on the property, including the APA which represents American Airlines.
I also take issue with managment's tactic of using disinformation and half-truths to push their own non-union agenda. Two points I'd like to raise; Mike Colgan say's that some of the best paid pilots don't have ALPA. Examples he cited are AA, AirTran, UPS among others. Well, guess what ALL are unionized!!! Second, the latest letter cites joining the union or not joining the union after the vote. Virginia is a right to work state, however, what Mike doesn't tell you is that ALPA will represent a pilot whether or not he individually joins the union or not. And, the reason that dues are required from all pilots is because we ALL enjoy the benefits of the contract.
Ultimately, the talk from Management is nothing short of scare tactics to maintain the status qou here at CJC. Personally, I think that the status qou sucks, and regardless of the quality of your work, dedication or professionalism. This simple fact remains, "meat in the seat" at the cheapest price and to go along quietly. Unfortunately, many fine individuals are going to vote with their feet as the industry begins to go to the well of highly-qualified pilots.
The current climate within the regional industry is a recipe for economic disaster. As the legacies begin to hire the most qualified individuals out of the the left-seat. Who is going to replace them in the short-term? If I was an airline manager in a regional I'd be damned worried! If I was a pilot I'd be worried about this phrase,
FOREIGN EQUITY OWNERSHIP. We face an era of more and goods and services within the United States being produced offshore. It is only a matter of time before Cabotage becomes a reality in the USA. Worse than that, we could easily see foreign nationals in OUR cockpits flying our airplanes. "Because American's won't do this kind of work". Best of luck to you all, get the relevant facts, don't make an emotional decision.
Regards,
ex-Navy Rotorhead
