Not in a position to argue with you Claret, as my experience is not first hand. However, I respect the opinion of my buddy. I am certainly not saying Cobham is better or worse than anyone else, just that the statement by bodybag did not reconcile with what my friend is telling me. Repeating specific stories may identify parties, and I am certainly not going to go there in a forum like this where ignorance and anonymity can lead to 'witch-hunts'.
I would modify your statement, however, about ability. I have found in most organisations that ability varies from unacceptable to outstanding. Most of us, however, fit in the middle at 'safe and competent'.