Seriph, if you read any of the information from many of the pilot unions around the world you will see that they are committed to the long term success and profitability of the airlines. Many airlines have profit sharing/bonus schemes designed to give incentive to the employees.
Maybe the EU unions are lost in a time warp but at UA for example the pilots are actually part owners (read capitalists) of the company. Hardly the type you speak of.
Many of the problems beign created by airline managements these days is due to the new guy trying to make his mark. They do this by cutting this, slashing that and generally creating unrest. Then they move on, leaving the entire staff, pilots included to live with their screw ups. The company in the long run is usually no better off and it can take years to undo what turns out to be a waste of time and money.