Piz Buin, you're 100% right!
It is a term used only by those on their knees in the corner with no way out without having their heads kicked in, probably by the airline's management. And havent their assoication/union backed themselves into a corner here?
I have an Australian friend who was part of the 89 dispute, and he's of the same opinion. I can't imagine anyone ever agreeing with the then PM, but he was right when he said that the dispute ended with the resignations, therefore nobody took the job of anybody who was on strike.
Likewise, nobody is taking a striker's job in Hong Kong.
Those in the wrong can't have it all ways. Either there is a strike or there isnt a strike.
Curious.