Ease back in???
There is no "easeing back into flying." Either you can fly or you can not. This was the schedule the captain "bid" for and he was awarded according to senority. In other words, this was his choice...not what United thrust on him. However, this is a moot point , as he is suspended from United and FAA has suspended his license pending further investigation. The purser on the other hand, is flying and is being lauded by United, her flying partners and the two F/O's for her professionalism in dealing with the situation.