I do not fly for Emireates but have friends who do and am worried by their concerns regarding fatigue and morale issues within the airline. I had respect for AS in his previous life with big airways , he was approachable and read the gospel of openness and learning from others mistakes, I am sorry to say it appears he has become just a yes man to those in real power who do not know the front from the back end of an aircraft.
The strict adherence to SOP's appears to be the invitation and opportunity the guys have been awaiting for a work to rule. Why would anyone extend ,when at the end of a long extended duty you might make a fatigue enduced error which will end in your sacking? why taxy above walking speed ? etc , basically why not make yourself fireproof. It's a frustrating way to operate but appears to me to be the only weapon available to you
Perhaps as schedules slip they may realise that the big stick dosen't always work and dish out a few carrots