Fractional, isn't that the easy way? Is that why you became a pilot/captain? If that's the way you want to fly, not using your brain and let people in an office far away take your decisions, can you still be proud of what you are doing?
Personally I feel already too restricted in what I am allowed to do. The SOP's at EK are often not a guideline anymore, but a strict rule. For example, the fully established at 1500ft thing is completely ridiculous. But that's another discussion...
Anyway, in my opinion and with the information I have, the crew showed lack of decisionmaking. Don't forget you are the captain on board and SNMC is only there for guidance.
Consider the point eklawyer made: if someone sued for unlawfull imprisonment, do you think the guy behind his desk will face proscecution?
It's all so easy just following their advice, but not always the right thing to do...
MR8