>>there is always one stumbling block: MONEY<<. .. .I know!. .. .Pilots would like their management to facilitate them in operational matters and careers and the airlines want managers to control cost. Hence 'soft' middle management who invariably handle staff badly. This only becomes a cost issue when there is an appreciable pilot turnover.. .Managers get replaced by more of the same. There are always more gullible types waiting in the wings!. .. .Its a real headache for line pilots. I don't know what to suggest further.