I questioned BALPA, via my reps, for quite a few years as to why we had pilots negotiating my T & Cs against professional and experienced negotiators representing the company... The response was cold, at best. This is beyond my understanding and people can say whatever they want, but there is always the problem and/or potential of reps (pilots) pushing and favoring deals that would benefit themselves rather then the collective.
I think the way to go is to use the existing framework and infrastructure of BALPA, contracting external negotiators representing us. The reasons for this approach are many. If they under perform we have the option to use another firm which gives an incentive for them to perform as we would probably be one of their largest costumers. With BALPAs framework and existing agreements with most companies we would not need to go through the hoops of getting recognized by the companies as representatives for the pilot force etc etc. Personally, I would be happy to pay double of what I am paying today if I knew that there was not a pilot, who most of the time fly a full schedule ei 870-something hrs a year, negotiating my T & Cs and directly influencing me and my family's lives.
The problem is that BALPA is a giant dinosaur that is operating the way it is and there seems to be very little will for changes.....
Maybe it's time to start a new thread on this topic?
Standing by for incoming.
CP