Tom, you are right to a certain extent, it is a matter of perspective and from where you have come.
However, where I do disagree with you strongly is in the simple maths of DXB and EK recent pay rounds.
Inflation is running conservatively at 15% pa we have been awarded our 3% annual increment plus 0.5%. So in effect we have had a 23.5% pay cut over the last 2 years.
Ek's package used to be one of the very best going. Not surprisingly those who flew for it were happy and engaged with the company, working hard towards the best interests and goals for both parties.
EK's package has not kept pace with either inflation or the global aviation employment market. In fact it has gone backwards, fast.
The financial problem is one issue, the others include unsustainable flying rates, insufficient rest patterns to fully recover from massive time changes on ULR flights, not honouring contracted leave entitlement. Actually the list goes on a on, but, Tom, you are right it is a different picture depending on where you came from to the Pit.