You bet I'm serious. Let's start with free coffee. It's not the fact that the coffee is free it's the fact that someone who knows you says 'Hello' and asks how you are before you fly. It's someone who knows you who asks how your other half and your loved ones are doing. Mental support and assessment if you like. Most if us don't get that. Instead it's rush rush rush and the psychos get on the plane first. But maybe, just maybe, a caring colleague might call you in sick because they are worried about you.
Then we have to confirm that the correct people are on the aircraft. When is that done? Some airlines do it, but most don't.
Now consider lack of the keypad excuse. Firstly, few aeroplanes lack the ability to open the door from the outside but I believe all have the ability to deny access. The latter is a vital necessity. But It's only a matter of a emails or so to force all operators without external access to fit such devices. Just like what happened to force all operators to install ballistic proof doors in the first place. Simples.
And the next is a failure to think ahead: Most CC haven't a clue about the nitty-gritty of what we do but they'll know something is wrong - but by then it's too late. Whack! Unless of course we are now going to fly with really big, strong, butch CC who can crack walnuts with their eyelids. And who will stop them from taking control? Or are you suggesting that we fly with airborne security? The same half wits who man the check-points and turf out our sunscreen and toothpaste? I can hear them comment now "You are not allowed to touch the C/B panel until I say so" or "Selecting Comm 3 to voice.." Look, these guys have to wear slip-on because they can't tie laces. And who will vet and train them them? And what happens if some naughty miss-creatant empties the flight deck oxygen? More work required here I think.
Returning to CC, yes they have been cleared to the same level as us. So what?Flight 370 may reveal that more than a security check is required. And that I think is where we started.
So let's be very clear - always having to have two in the flight is a dumb rule. For it to work and be worthwhile, the additional person will have to have a significant amount of training (both technical and psychological), additional vetting and plenty of practice. Anything less will just be more box ticking theatricals, just like modern airport and aviation security.