I have been noticing this disturbing trend over the last 4-5 weeks. Out of 9 flights I have taken this month, 4 have been significantly delayed (+45mins) because the crew had not arrived or they were "missing" FAs.

One of those times I saw the First Officer walk by my seat. Which meant they still had to fill logs, etc, once there.

Had an hour long delay at ORD because FAs had not arrived yet. Also had to wait 55min (once boarded) at DFW for a mechanic to show up to fix a lavatory (took him 5mins). A mechanic in DFW!

I am wondering if AA keeps "reserve" or "backup" personnel at their hubs, at least? Are these things happening because of the announced layoffs? And if that hasn't occurred yet, would things get worse?