Can someone please explain to me why anybody in Eastern should have any loyalty to the AFAP. What is their track record?
'89: i think it's safe to say that could have probably gone a little better.
Mid 90's Qantas integration: that one didn't go so well. Rather than fostering a good relationship with all parties to achieve a great outcome for their customers(Eastern pilots) it was decided it would be better to hire Dennis Denuto and run a court case based on the vibe and mabo. Unlike the Castle, however,Dennis lost this case.
Southern Closure: Gee, great outcome for 146 pilots there. Either an abmissmal redundancy or back to the Dash. Wonder what would have happened if those jet pilots had been AIPA members?
A string of no gain EBA's, until finally at the last one some younger Eastern blokes got in and stirred them up, forcing them kicking and screaming not to accept the first offer the company made.
And finally commending to the pilots the first jet opportunity deal the Company comes up with, which actually limits the numbers of people allowed to leave Eastern and go to Jet*. How's that meant to be any good?
Don't forget also the AFAP are out there representing all manner of other pilots willing to do Eastern's flying for less. What if a 400 comes along. The NJS blokes are going to put a bid in using the AFAP as their reps. Do the Eastern guys have any chance of the best representation possible if their Industrial advisors are also representing competitors?
It seems pretty clear the only reason the bulk of people are with the AFAP is for the MBF. Well if a better alternative should present itself for loss of licence they're going to be struggling to keep the Eastern crew. Why, because they simply don't have the runs on the board to say "stay with us we've done so much for you". I think you'd be really struggling to find anyone who thinks the AFAP staff is chocked full of "experienced, professionals". They certainly haven't demonstrated those qualities in a very long time.
