Covey--if you are interested --ALWAYS walk to the pointy end at the end of a flight. I'm always surprised by how few ask for a visit these day, kids especially.
As for crews causing pax issues-- I would say that is extremely rare. Usually if someone is sick (or calling in sick) they give good notice. The issue becomes if there are so many sick that they can't cover flights and that is a management/company issue not an individual issue.
I also find, at EK in general, the pilots are highly professional and as frustrated as they are with the company they don't take it out on the pax or other crew (always exceptions of course).
The thread started with a comment about grounded aircraft due to lack of crew. If that happens, it is company issue and not one that can be solved by pilots. With the amount we are flying today there is no room left to 'help' out. If there was, I'd say the vast majority WON'T help - they have been beaten to death.