Pimp Daddy,
The actual professional standards of
VB pilots is not in question here.
It is how they are dressed and the perception that others have of them because of their dress standard that is in question.
Good point re the biggles uniforms but open cockpits and paddocks of yesteryear hardly compare to a modern pressurised flight deck and flashy terminals where we are seen by the public. The majority of the worlds airlines do supply their pilots with a smart looking uniform to uphold a professional image.
How would you feel if you went to a nuero surgeon seeking life saving surgery and everybody from the cleaners to the surgeons were wearing the same sloppy casual jeans and tea shirt. Personally I would be looking for another surgeon who takes pride in his appearance as hopefully the same pride would be present whilst operating.
Maybe I am old fashioned but I don't see the wearing of a smart uniform as a burden but more as a reward for the years of hard work to achieve ones qualifications.