Suitcaseman,
Solidarity, the union, is simply never going to hack it for the Airlink pilots, although solidarity, the standing together for a principal, in an ethical manner, probably will.
The "bitching threads" about SAA, SAX, COMAIR, Cathay, Emirates, Qantas, Delta, British Airways.... Etc, are par for the course. Don't base your perception of any airline on these.
Do yourselves a big favour, and align with the only professional aviation association in the country. ALPA-SA (and its parent body, IFALPA) do one hell of a lot more than simply union work. In fact, I consider the non-union activities of IFALPA more important than the union work, and I pay my sub's with a smile. Also, when we need to stand together...It happens in an organised and efficient manner.
Come now... Be good to yourselves!
P&F