Today's Current Airline Economics
Hi Atse,
There are differences as well as similarities in any strike. Yet, the main thing that has changed dramatically is the economics of our industry now versus how it was back in the 80's. Increased competition, massive downsizing, cutbacks and fuel prices are at an all time high. I do not claim to know your industry or position better than you do. I just hope that you are giving your rank and file the full picture of what they have at risk. Since the risk is extremely high to go on strike just over some hypotheticals right now with so many airlines going belly up. It just seems like a very risky proposition. I wouldnt want to be in your shoes having to make this decision regarding ones income, family, and livelyhoods future in such an unstable airline economy.
As far as corrupt. We were advised one thing and the other occured. Pensions were lost, families were ruined, homes foreclosed and the top rank and file of the union as well as corporate management all had nicely planned escape clauses and golden parachutes. The average guy on the line was basically told at midnite on Jan 1991 that we no longer had jobs stranded around the world depending on the charity of other airlines to get us home. I wouldnt wish that scenario on any airline employee or their families if it could be resolved through diplomacy and negotiations.