But what happens to the F/O who has, say 3 little ones at home with mouthes to feed. He (she) has no idea how long the said strike could take place (up to 3 yrs. from what I have seen posted here) and doesn't have the financial means to stand in a picket line.
Basically agree's with the union pilots in that things have to change, yet HAS to work.
Anyone who can qualify as an airline pilot can get work of some sort in another field. Also the union provides a stipend, plus you can see a strike coming months or years in advance...start saving.
Is this person "labeled" for the rest of their career?
Yes. If they're very lucky management will stick up for them and insist that they be retained post-strike, but they will have a miserable career to look forward to.