You are all ridiculous. Being a pilot isn't some special skill, there are millions of us. We don't create anything, or improve the world, we guide a hunk of metal from point A to B. If you are farther along in your career, it's not because you are better, it's because you got into this at a particular time and those above you either. Moved on, quit, or died. This isn't a field where promotions are based on merit, but one where you WILL move up if you put up with enough crap and don't quit.