Whenever the subject of the "qualities of a pilot" is raised, the issue becomes confused by introducing the "qualities of a captain" into the same argument.
To become a successful pilot needs the academic ability to absorb and remember the technicalities of the aeroplane and associated subjects- nothing very difficult about that - plus the physical co-ordination of eye and arm to successfully control the aeroplane.
To be a successful Commander requires all the management skills and experience of dealing with people, operational problems and decision making that have to be absorbed and demonstrated over a period of time.
They are two entirely different things. You DON'T need to be a pilot to be a good captain - the RAF has employed non-pilot captains for fifty odd years.
Similarly, some companies (two that I've worked for) employ PILOTS who are very good at flying their aeroplane but not very good at exercising the skills of command.
So when we talk about the skills/professionalism/qualities/pride of/ problems associated with/justified financial rewards/etc, etc, let's be clear about whether we're talking about pilots or commanders.