No matter how badly the vocal minority wish to evade the Nicolau, the reality is setting in that the joint contract will include an unrestricted Nicolau.
Further, you need to look at the moves by all three parties: Most recently, LCC asks for the courts to basically tell them (LCC) what list may/ may not/ must be used. I (IMHO) think this is a very telling move. Parker and LCC want this put to bed sooner rather than later. I think Parker has squeezed about as much $$$$$ out of our division as possible, and needs a joint contract to move to a more realistic chance at another merger. This merger has eclipsed EVERY OTHER airline merger in nonsense.
Next is the rumor that won't die regarding an offer by LCC (during the last UAL attempt) of the AWA contract + DAL wages. If this is a fact, how many more times will the collective east body turn their nose up at it because it's not date of hire?
I think the MAJORITY of the East pilots (mostly silent) are fed up with this little circus. We have the tools to change our independent union to actually be an effective democratic body (vs. a DELAY machine). I think we could see a positive change in our CBL's and toward a contract. The $64,000 questions are: 1) Are there enough Members in Good standing that are paying attention to what is going on, and willing to vote with common sense vs. emotion. 2) How badly does LCC want a joint contract, and exactly what are they willing to pay for it?
Lurkers:
- Please be informed: Go to www.cactuspilot.com and read the legal documents and other documents.
- Please be sure that you are a member in good standing, so that you can participate and vote.
- Join us (east & west) at: http://cp.cactuspilots.us This is a forum that we can discuss, share information together, and have spirited debates. There are only a handful of east guys there, and you are all welcome.
- Please join us if you tired of the current USAPA circus: www.reformusapa.com. There are three petitions there. EVEN if you completely disagree with the Nicolau, the other two petitions are NO BRAINERS.