HB,
actually a lot of pilots are v happy flying the Q400; I am one of them.
Most LH seaters are in flybe to fly from the regions, most like the Q400.
The £53,000 was actually very welcome news; the pay offer is separate from T&Cs; J. French is increasing the pilot numbers by 5% per aircraft (irrespective of whether the BACON deal goes through) to alleviate roster instability issues. There is to be a separate ballot re the T&Cs later.
So, the recruitment for the additional 5% of pilots will go ahead and pilots are very happy with a 19% pay offer. We don't all want to go to LGW to fly jets.
FB