Sure, there's a small chance that it could really bite you. I didn't read the whole thread, but it sounds like this could be his first airline job and first time commuting. When I started I had no clue how much commuting can affect your life. A longer commute = more time away from home unpaid. Lucky for me the airline I chose had a base that was extremely convenient for me. If you have to start commuting in the night before that's less days off. If you have 4 trips for the month that 4 extra nights in a hotel...one that you have to pay for.

Agree or disagree, but the whole picture needs to be looked at. If you live in base you'll never understand what a pain it is to commute and how much extra it takes from your home life.