As an outsider with a residual interest in baby, it's fascinating watching the discussion here.
From a historical perspective IIRC, the IPA was formed when a group of pilots also felt very let down by BALPA following the takeover of DAN Air by BA (a very long time ago now).
It's also noticeable how the different cc's within the bmi group have been able to make very different concessions from their relevant managements.
The stumbling blocks to all unions in this country are the laws set in favour of the employers, meaning the pilots will always be reacting to situations, and the pilots getting effective leadership in their own CC, coupled with getting effective support from their menbers. A very difficult task indeed.
