Just as the bases are being used as a recruitment tool for new joiners, they also serve as a retention tool for those already here. Imagine if the company came out and said "we are done with bases" and planned to close them. Anyone on the fence about CX, whether on a base or hoping for one, would leave. If you think expanding the pilot ranks is difficult now, try growing after making an announcement like that. Forget about it!
So the way I see it, the only certainty is that the company will keep its cards very close to its chest. There may even be a few bluffs along the way...
CXorcist