It's OUR fault...
It's OUR fault, Sevenstrokeroll (and Rraamjet). We had the opportunity to get someone's attention in the early eighties when there was talk about a nationwide suspension of service (SOS). Everyone was afraid of Ronald Reagan.
Then, several years back (but recent enough to be under Bush, the genius), we talked about a strike. The word came from the White House that, if we all walked, the National Guard would 'escort' us to work.
To be blunt, we take it in the shorts because we allow it. Many people I fly with are more interested in leaning the owner's manual for their new BMW and less interested in getting involved in the union.
A few years ago, I flew with a first officer who, during the entire four-day trip, bitched about his life as an airline pilot at our company. Finally, I asked him if he had voiced his concerns with XXXX. His reply, "Who the hell is he?" I responded, "He's your union rep!"
Sevenstrokeroll, Rrammjet, et. al......Your opinions are, in my opinion, quite valid, true, correct. The question is: What are we going to do about it?
Maybe our new union head will have the guts to be a true union man, as opposed to being just another politician.
Fly safe,
PantLoad