The optics of a grounding and lockout are horrible.
The 2011 narrative was established well before the events of 29 October 2011.
Qantas International without any forewarning was declared "terminal".
With the Fair Work Act yet to be tested the narrative was established, coinciding with three big employee groups "negotiating"
The Qantas International "transformed" narrative served the self-interest well.
Pretty difficult to de-transform the airline again.
Downside risk is way too high, he is a one trick pony, but the narrative would not support even a cursory examination of the Little Napoleon's exclamations.
Just like in the Wizard of Oz, he is a little man behind a curtain (or screen of personal security) making idle threats.
Time is on the employee's side.