Geez Kap,
There we were having a perfectly reasnoble discussion about operational matters, but true to form you had to launch into personal attacks and snooty put downs.
So, your definition of professionalism is to ignore SOPs and do what you like 'cause you know better. You'd make a great Training Captain. "That's what the book says, now here's how I WANT you to do it!!""
I well remember having to seek a briefing before any sim or line check to find out what the particular Check Captains' definition of "The ONLY way to do it" was. This was finally put to rest by the introduction of the PATs system at Ansett, which very accuratley and objectivley spelt out what the procedures were, and how they were to be adhered to. Anything else came under the heading of "Technique" which could certainly be discussed, but wasn't a matter of "This is how it SHALL be done.". The Airlines I've flown with in Europe have had similar, clearly defined SOPs and a pervasive culture of "As long as you are trying to follow the rules, we will always back you".
So, let me ask you- Does your current employer have a QAR scheme?
- If so, when was the last time someone rang you said "By not flying the SOP profile, you saved us 50KG of fuel, thanks!!"
You can rest assured the first time you or your crew scew up while doing your own thing, your Ass will be in a sling.