Q: Is it possible to explain why there is so much distrust that a TA2 would be presented within a reasonable amount of time if this contract gets voted down? Why would it be legal to continue to JCBA and NOT to a TA2? That would set us back probably another 3 years.
It is unlikely that a “TA2” would be turned around quickly if the TA is not ratified – that is just not how the process works. The process could take several months. The MEC would have to decide whether or not to change any members of the Negotiating Committee. The NC would be charged with surveying/meeting with Members to figure out exactly why the TA failed. Then new opening proposals based on those results would be created and reviewed by the MEC. Only after that would we meet with and request further mediation dates from the National Mediation Board (NMB) (we would still be in mediation). Once the NMB set new dates, bargaining would begin.
If history is any guide, if a merger happens during open contract negotiations, oftentimes the contract negotiations are shelved and JCBA negotiations commence. United/Continental, USAirways/America West/AA are both examples.