1. It is NOT the flag - carrier , but may be perceived to be by many . Not flown the Union Jack on its hulls for YEARS . Branson had to do it for some reason that is beyond me.
2 . It is well paid and well pensioned , if you do the time , it is not instant Xanadu.
3. The reason people stay , and enjoy it , is because after 3-5 years of graft and little life/ fleet choices , you get to have a fantastic balance of work / family / social life , and that makes happy crew . Most do 900 hours per annum ( longhaul ) but have big input to their roster / lifestyle .Some people leave because they are impatient for command , many of those regret doing so.