Applying our own personal logic to other peoples' situation won't always give us the full picture. A friend of mine from my 135 days called me a year or so ago asking for a rec letter. He lives in Anchorage and was flying the 747 at Atlas based in ANC. I told him I would be happy to but to seriously consider the implication of commuting for your entire life, especially when getting hired at the back of our wave. He said he did and it was what he wanted, so I sent it in. He's SEA73N now and happy as a clam. Everyone has their own unique circumstances and what they prioritize in their life and career.