The Southwest Airlines Pilots’ Association (SWAPA) met yesterday afternoon to discuss the transition agreement between Southwest pilots and AirTran pilots.
SWAPA’s has stated that its primary interest is to negotiate an agreement with Southwest Airlines to incorporate pilots from the AirTran seniority list onto the Southwest Airlines seniority list.
“We are cautiously optimistic of the potential fleet growth opportunity connected to this acquisition and its subsequent effect on our pilots’ career progression,” says Captain Carl Kuwitzky, president of SWAPA. “As we work on our portion of this acquisition, no stone will be left unturned to protect SWAPA pilots’ interests.”
However the merger is not contingent on any union approval so the meeting of pilots is a preliminary measure to ensure a smooth transition. The fact that management is seeking a "fair and equitable" combination, has given hope to pilots that they will receive a place on the new seniority list.