I do not think it is ego to expect at least an acknowledgement of an application. It is basic courtesy. It is not hard to set up an automated reply that leaves the applicant at least knowing their application was received.
It is normal in our industry not to hear back. Just flew with a capt who sent out over 400 resumes/job applications at one point...he got two replies.
I would say I heard back around 5-10% of the time...usually "0" response.