AL,
Almost, I didn't say that it would drive passengers away, the passenger posting did so - I merely highlighted the fact and the sense of outrage the previous statement can cause in our fare paying public.
Like so many things in this world, perception is everything and, right now, the public perception of the CC is generally rather negative. Statements like the one I've posted above only serve to reinforce that point of view and, like it or not, the public do get to choose ultimately. Despite your assertion of the CEO's "Ratnerisation" of the airline (a lovely analogy, by the way), it's not a view that's widely held by many people outside of the CC community. The city is strongly backing the CEO's plans, most of our passengers (whether through skilful use of the media - not BASSA/Unite's strong suit in this dispute) believe the fault for this mess lies at the door of the crew and their union, rightly or wrongly and it's really only a few select (and mostly ultra left-wing) commentators who are backing the crew. I'm sure you've seen, just as I have, the seizing upon articles by the crew that they normally, with their political leanings, wouldn't give house room to? George Galloway, Socialist Worker, Daily Star and an op-ed internet piece on the Guardian.
I'd argue that the old "It'd be a great job if it weren't for the passengers" (which I've heard said in many a galley and fully understand it's a joke) is a little different from wishing misery on all the "horrid" people and hoping their plans are ruined. That, of course, is merely my take on it. We all respond and react differently to the use of certain words and phrases which makes the written word such a complex and pitfall-laden area of communication.