A standing ovation with the obligatory slow clap for nolimitholdem
Awesome post.
The only thing I'll add is that if you are on the 777 and are working a freighter pairing and your trip gets extended into a few days off. Plan on not getting those days back or being paid for the lost days. When you call scheduling to inquire about some compensation for your lost days off, they will kindly tell you that you are still above minimum days off so "you're good" and you get nothing in return for your lost time. If that freighter trip is then shortened back to the original length, plan on having those days (which were once off) converted to an "Available Day" where you will be given a reserve period or a night turn. In return for the operational flexibility that you have given the company you get to enjoy the well deserved sweet f#%k all you are owed for your time.
Que the company apologists!