I am sure that, for many, the sole inspiration behind flying is not the cash. Indeed, for those that started in the last 5 years or so it is quite the opposite - you have to have an aversion to the stuff (£83K spent so far, poorer income than my previous job etc).
One of the fundamental motivators is taking on the responsibility of occupying the LHS. I imagine that the type of character that BA are seeking is one who relishes and is more than capable of handling that responsibility.
The thought of joining BA and never achieving that goal is on a par with losing my licence indefinitely.
If BA could offer a good package, with a reasonable or even a quick time to command, then there would be hundreds of us swotting up right now.
Their choice!