To Inspector Gadget and all others engineers:-
Sorry that I've taken so long to make this posting, the thread has only just come to my attention (I've been working hard recently).
The comment I made on the R+N forum regarding engineers was poorly written and didn't portray what I was actually thinking at the time - The Guvnor had wound me up and I should have chosen my words more carefully.
As I said, I have nothing but the utmost respect for all the engineers out there, they are undoubtably part of the front-line team that is essential to the running of all airlines.
What I was trying to say (very poorly) was that the system has placed them below pilot's when it comes to the question of remuneration. That system is flawed in more ways than one. The skill and technical ability of all the engineers I work with is, without a doubt, comparable with that of pilot's (and considerably more in many cases). Apart from the questionable pay increment to compensate for jet-lag, I see no reason why engineers are not paid a similar salary.
Apologies to all - I'll just get my coat.