The high PIC/SIC ratio is a good thing for the company and pilots. The low pilot/airframe ratio means pairing issues if we had rank ratios like the legacy carriers, and PIC/PIC pairings relieve the need for more bodies.

Getting emotionally wrapped up in one’s company is something called pride. Especially since the pilot group has been instrumental in securing one heck of a CBA and bringing this company to the level it’s at now in the 22 years I’ve been here. Just flew with an FO last tour on the CC72 schedule who is north of $200k/yr in the large cabin. He has no reason nor desire to upgrade into a small cabin at this point even though his seniority would hold an upgrade bid.

Finally, anyone in this industry who believes “promises” made during recruitment/hiring is naive at best. I can think of other descriptions that would fit better though.