<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">If I was to gaze into my crystal ball, I'd see hard times ahead for UAL and any carrier (such as DL and AA) that emulates their insane pay scales. I see major layoffs - and probably industrial action - which will devastate once fine carriers</font>
Guvnor, this is known as "concessions" and gets all the airlines through the hard times.
My bet is UAL will be the first to ask for them next time around and everyone else will follow. It's management's way of "pattern bargaining". Come on, I know you're familiar with these tactics!!! If not, can I recommend you read the fine book entitled "Tactics of a Union buster"!
Cheers
Doctor Bob
AirlineRumor.com