I'm as pro-union as the next guy. However, all are welcome on my jumpseat. Some will have some explaining to do enroute, but I won't deny the seat to anyone who CASSfully has a right to be there.
I just can't, in good conscious, use the jumpseat as a tool to push my political agenda. And trust me, I have one.....
Darn tootin' straight... I agree with all of the above. (and everyone who echoed) Everyone will always be welcome in mine - tool, kool-aid drinker, and etc. - I don't care.
We are all pilots, no matter what the opinion that others have about the company I work for, the company you work for, or etc. we all passed the same orals, the same type rides, PC's, PT's, and Line Checks to the same standards. (we've all endured the rubber glove treatment and the subsequent night terrors from sadistic –and thorough- Check Airmen) No matter what individual management groups have said or done - we are all professionals who take pride on our work and we all strive to grow our personal skill set and careers as professional pilots day after day.
You don't use the jumpseat as a political tool... feel free to give me a four hour lecture during cruise why I am a total and complete idiot for working at brand X airlines, I’ll take it with a smile and shrug, but don't deny me a ride home (or a ride to work) after I've been away for weeks sometimes. That's just asking for trouble – another way to divide the different pilot groups and play into management’s games. We all need each other to maintain our quality of life - especially when “Mainline” is not going to every destination and pilots live in all corners of the country. (People have long memories, especially when emotions are high and you are trying to get home after a brutal trip)
It's funny sometimes how what's best for the "pilot group as a whole" equates to - "I've got mine, now you better not do anything to screw it up – pull up the rope, I don't care what happens to you."
EVERYTHING theoretically erodes the industry… you might as well go find Jimmy Carter and give him a big kick in the
peanuts because the whole downturn started then. If you have everyone voting with their wallet, it’s no wonder that every dollar is in question. It’s too bad that you can’t raise fares and people are willing to subject themselves to hours of delays and connections.
If you deny a fellow pilot a jumpseat – just ask yourself, who you are really hurting and who you are really helping.
Ok, end of rant…