'i dont care about status'
757 driver......interesting post. Most pilots have egos the size of planets and, rightly or wrongly their status is important to them. In fact status is important to everyone regardless of occupation. We all need to feel valued . In my experience, career F/O's do not feel valued, they are typically frustrated and bitter, traits which get worse as they get older. Choosing the 'right' seat for lifestyle reasons might suit some for the short term but lets be honest , seeing a 50 year old / 60 year old first officer with 20,000 hours in the log book is a depressing sight.