I think the BMI integration would lower the time to command. At least that's what BALPA have been saying!
Abbey Road has it on the money. There'll be a one time brief window of opportunity for those
nearly in the frame for a long haul command but everyone else is screwed. It was clear early on that BALPAs sums didn't add up, hence their refusal to explain their working on the matter. In typical BALPA fashion the deal was given the hard sell, opposition to it was shouted down and belittled, and now they are coming up with endless excuses about why things aren't working out as they said they would. My favourite was 'Dear Leader' saying that he now regretted saying 'No BA pilot disadvantaged', the very axiom on which the deal was sold to members! Perhaps be should have said no BALPA rep disadvantaged?