Here’s the airlines’ spin on terms and conditions. All employees knew the pay and benefits schedules when interviewing. Base assignments are usually known during initial training. During basic indoctrination, the instructor pointed out that the use crew room as a rest area prohibited. Instructors warned about the evils of long distance commutes. The subject of crash pads came up during training.

It is equally clear that the airlines have to create in a benefit package for hotel accommodations so crews won’t have to commute cross country all night and strap the jet to their backs and work another 12 hours. And yes… starting wages need to be increased. But equally it is the responsibility for the airman to walk away from substandard conditions without reserve. New entrants to the airline business need to quit clicking their heels three times in the hopes that any employer is going to be altruistic and provide a livable wage on their own. Remember… airplanes don’t fly by themselves.