I think its a perception that they're pickier with their pilot selection. Whether that's accurate or not, I can't say, but from what I've gathered that seems to be the perception.

Personally, I like them because as a passenger, I've always found their aircraft to have the best level of comfort (for US airlines). Also found their customer service to be particularly good. Would prefer to work for an airline that I feel serves the customer well (and pays well )

Best I've been on so far though was Austrian. Primarily because the food was awesome (relative) and the beer was great.