You're right, opposition was probably not the right word, competing would have been better, and there is no doubt VIPA and the AFAP have collaborated to achieve a good outcome for the pilots.
But, if you think that unions who represent the same body of workers are not competing for membership, and therfore dominance, then I would say you are mistaken. Over time, one of the two unions will become dominant, and when that happens, that union and its members will be calling the shots. The company is only humoring both unions at present because FWA legislation requires it, and they are not sure yet which union will become dominant.
That said, it was extremely encouraging to see that if there are any higher level union political issues, they haven't had an adverse effect on the EBA. Bodes well for the
VB EBA I would think.