Because they can, and there is still a line of pilots waiting to do it is the reason.

There is no solidarity between the pilots. Nothing but infighting and bickering for the most part. If the pilot group functioned as one, there wouldnt be this problem. Say no, and thats the bottom line, raise wages or nobody flies. What choice do they have?

But with the way things are, who cares if one person, or one small group says no, when there is a line of guys behind them itching to take their position for less. It's unbelievable really.

Take example at what is happening at Alitalia now. The airline is about to go under and management asks the F/As and pilots for concessions. Guess what? They arent budging. For now its either their pay and contract stays as it is, or the airline goes under. It will be really interesting to see what happens as this continues, but thats the kind of pilot group we need. Is one that is united, with the same stance. I wish we had a group like that state side when we needed one. Here everybody is ready to trample the guy in front of him to get into a jet for 15,000$ a year.