It's actually getting tiresome.

The seniority system will not go away because a few pilots feel they were somehow burned because of it. The vast majority of mainline pilots in the USA have benefited from it. There is no other simple way of allocating seats, schedules, vacation, etc. Or cementing unity and commitment. Yes, the CEO may have a bargaining chip with the senior half of the list, but the system also fosters a solidified collective bargaining unit.

I know of no ex-pat who wouldn't trade places with me in a heartbeat.

If a guy wants a free-for-all, "rugged individualist," job market where he can sell his superior skills to the highest bidder unshackled by the socialist fetters of seniority -- corporate aviation awaits.