Whilst John_Smith has clearly replaced WBF as the chief of polarised positions he does make valid points as well. Just sometimes expressed in a way that irritates.
Shareholder value is king. It is across the capitalist world. Airlines are just late to this game. A family member has worked in the City for 40 years and tells of horrific abuses of staff and customers in the name of profit. Just look at RBS. Once the bastion of commercial prudence, greed and the drive for profit at all costs has driven it time and time again to cross the line into gross abuse of trust and incompetence. They are being fined billions for these sins.
Companies that have understood the symbiotic relationship between a quality, motivated and happy work force generate sustainable growth and manage costs in a humane and controlled manner. Those that don't eventually fall to their knees. Airlines are not and will not be exempt.