As
KC says, most reporters do go through the airline press offices in the first instance. Problem is, press officers won't always agree to putting staff up for interview. What is more, no pilot or cabin crew member is going to talk on the record about issues which may annoy their employers.
The purpose of this interview request is to get guidance and understanding of the issues without putting pressure on staff by naming them. Leave the on-the-record stuff to industry representatives.
This represents a good opportunity, and is good for PPRuNE and PPruNers. Ignore it if you wish, but don't knock it.
