....And it's the mechanic's fault that management sits there and watches US guys do nothing, or play with our laptops. Even the best mechanics, and there's plenty @ ORD, sit around and DO NOTHING, when there's nothing to do. It's unfortunate for AA, but fortunate for US, that line mechanics are like firemen. Why don't you complain to your city council why firemen sit around and DO NOTHING....when there's no fires, and make as much, if not more than you do. When was the last time you seen firemen get concessionary contracts? Why not pay them per fire? I guess the only part I will agree is that we have a select few AMT's that lack credibility, integrity and professionalism. These few make ALL of us look bad. As far as "the flying public" knowing what goes on at the "Best Airline", and you can't honestly mean AA....well, they don't give a rat's ass about you or me, as long as their flight's on time. But, I will say this.....you're priceless to the "flying public" when there's a maintenance issue with their airplane!