I just said that was one way to buy off pilots, not THE way it is going to happen. I just have little faith in the fortitude of any labor group, esp. pilots.I don't see any promises of fleet growth or career stability in Parker's plan. In fact, DALPA believes that there will be numerous pilot layoffs and career instability. Then there is the merging with an extremely senior US pilot group that brings very little to the table in terms of widebodies and international opportunity.
The only ones who will gain here are the US pilots.
IMO the DAL pilots will not go along with the deal until they have no choice, and then they will make the best of things, and do what they can for themselves alone. and in the same light Parker will not offer them anything more unless he feels he has to.
Either way, much like the DOJ, I just dont see the DAL Pilots as a serious roadblock, otherwise the proposal would have never been forwarded.
Remember that "pissed off employees" is far from being a deal breaker in airline reorganizations.