Good post turbodog.
With the way the economy is going these days, most businesses (airlines) are cutting a lot of corners. Pilot pay is only one method management is trying to squeeze every dollor out of the operating cost. Skimping parts, understaffed mx departments, work arounds, etc.. all lead to less than desirable airplanes. Is it just my imigination or has there been an extra rash of mishaps in the industry lately.

Remember, the guys/gals in the front seat are always the first ones to show up at the accident scene.