True. I can't deny what you say about my proper understanding of things but I try to understand it as best I can from the sidelines of AOA, DFO and GMA updates, etc. And yes, the sidelines are very far from actually playing in the game.
Still, I think the AOA should have a public stand. They did (in conjunction with IFALPA) regarding the recruitment ban due the 49ers dispute and true, pilots did still join. But at least the AOA had a statement and position on the issue.
DEFO? Yeah, have heard the same rumblings. But a bitter pill to swallow for a widebody FO to watch a zero hour (possibly 18 year old) iCadet who interviewed up to 3+ years after I did rise to be my Capt. Plus, CX are well and truly behind the 8-ball on this as well. EK, EY, QR and other agencies (placements in Europe, Sth East Asia and China) are recruiting suitably qualified Capts & FO's as quick as possible to satisfy their expansion needs.
The comment by Warham where he states to what extent should the AOA be responsible for the terms & conditions of future pilots struck a chord with me, for obvious reasons.
I appreciate your take on things. It sums it up better than I've heard yet.