I am in favor of getting paid by the duty hour as well. Here is an interesting angle on this topic. Some airlines (including Alaska) do not consider you eligible for the Federal Family Leave Act because we don't work enough hours! I think you have to work 1500/year to qualify. ALPA national has decided not to fight this absurd interpretation of law. Fortunately in Washington State, we have a better State Family leave act so the point is moot in WA. Anyway, if we were paid by the duty hour we all would qualify for the FMLA.