The following is from an anonymous post recently posted on Justhelicopters:

Why I Want A Contract

Without a legally binding contract no other priorities matter because they can be changed, or withdrawn, without prior notice. And they frequently are. I happen to believe that the only reliable way to obtain a mutually equitable contract is through equitable negotiation. That can only occur when the negotiation is done with both parties enjoying strong bargaining positions. That is one of my strongest reasons for supporting unionization.

Too often I've seen the "take it or leave it, I've got a hundred resumes on my desk from pilots who'll be happy to take it" or the "Gee, I'd like to pay more but the contract doesn't allow any flexibility" attitude presented from management to the pilot. And the pilot is then left to either take it, or leave it. Let's face it, you can pass up some jobs, but if all the companies are telling you the exact same thing, sooner or later, if you are going to find a flying job, you will have to "take it".

We all hope to retire. I don't see anything unreasonable about wanting a decent retirement plan for when that day comes.

No matter what the pay, location, or benefits, and regardless of the company you work for, there are so many variables that can present themselves which can turn an otherwise "dream" job into a living hell. Contracts can protect you from most of those variables.

You ought to be able to anticipate what your pay will be in 2,3 5, or 10 years. If you are good enough for the company to retain you in their employ, you certainly ought to be good enough to receive a fair annual cost of living increase. You shouldn't have to take a second job or a part-time job to be able to afford a new car every five years. And you ought to be able to afford a modest mortgage on a reasonably priced home and be able to afford to send your children to college.