OK so if there are any journo's out there trawling (and presumably not looking for an upgrade) why dont you ask Messrs Clifford and Joyce if the Chief Pilot was at the function and if not why not.
If he wasnt their, it is an appalling hypocrisy by the people who seem to drag out the tech crew skill and contribution to the company whenever it suits their
PR purpose.
Not sure the individual would actually want to go, but that is a completely separate issue.
Seems an obvious question but I dont profess to be as smart as these guys.