US Airways (NYSE: LCC) is a major domestic air carrier, which as of April 2008 operates 3,800 flights to 230 destinations across the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe^[1]. The company’s finances suffered considerably due to reduced air travel following September 11th, forcing the airline to declare bankruptcy in 2002^[2]. However, unlike other carriers that improved and emerged stronger following Chapter 11 protection, US Airways never fully recovered. The combination of high fuel costs and tough labor negotiations forced the company into a merger with America West in 2005. While the US Airways name was maintained for brand purposes, the merger actually left America West executives and stockholders with more control over the new company^[3].

US Airways has responded to the low fare revolution in domestic air carriers by attempting to cut costs and revise its route structure. The company has adopted increased point-to-point flights along the east coast and instituted fees for basic amenities (headphones, food, etc.). The airline's ability to continue to manage its costs is less certain, however. In 2008, the company's 30,000+ employees formed a coalition to demand higher wages and better benefits. Normally, airlines negotiate with their employees through separate unions (flight attendants, pilots, service workers, etc.). By forming a single body to negotiate on their behalf, the employees will be able to exercise greater bargaining power. During the same period, fuel prices reached an all time high.

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