Sad, but true. Every employee at every legacy carrier will need to make a choice. To keep doing something they love while making less money, or do something else.

For now, I will chose the former. What I fear most right now is that a great many of my colleagues simply do not understand the fundamental changes in our industry. Yup, past managment screwed up. But even the best run legacy carriers will have to deal with the new reality.

How can a mature company in any industry, with older workers (who have more medical problems, have earned higher pay and more vacation time) compete with a young company whose workforce is comprised of twentysomethings?

For that matter, how can Acme Tool and Die or Acme Fine Furniture - with plants and employees in North America - compete against companies who make their fine tools and furniture in China?

OK - I am really digressing now....sorry 'bout, folks.

I can only really address the CWA situation. The proposed contract involves great "sacrifice". But what is the alternative?