FC: I don't understand your comment "I used to pick a number to keep them quiet." Isn't it important to assign the
correct delay code? Clearly you weren't doing this!
However, how about adding some new delay codes to the IATA list to ease this apparent issue: how about not enough dispatchers, not enough gate staff, no ground staff available because the a/c was off schedule etc etc.
Off the original topic I know, but any other ideas for new delay codes?