Ok..let's stick to the facts...
I don't regard Ek as an airline that one has to be desperate before applying. I think each person is motivated by different reasons. It's not all about the upgrade and pay. Speaking about upgrades, there is no cross bidding for upgrades, so if u are on the Bus or Boeing, the upgrade depends entirely on the expansion of that particular fleet which may vary. Quality of life is different for everyone as well...definately depends on whether you are single or married/with kids. I have thought this through and think it's a good fit for me if the opportunity presents itself. And lastly out of the 1000 pilots at EK, how many post here? It seems that no airline in itself is the "best " place to be. Each has pluses and minuses. Seems that most people vent their frustrations on these forums just like my own airline's union website, but i think the bottom line is EK is not for everyone. I look at the opportunity to see if it works for me, having said that, if offered a job, i go in with an open mind and make the best of it. Despite the negatives, i think i'll enjoy it
we'll see