Originally Posted by
Boeing operator
What ever makes you happy...
If I may offer some perspective from a buddy who's a chef.. He'd rather be cooking in a well established, respectable restaurant with demanding customers than doing (exactly) the same thing at some run down family joint with 2-for-1 chicken wings and tequila happy hour.
While the job once the flight deck door closes remains the same regardless of tail markings, there is a lot to be said for being associated with a respectable airline, brand and image. There may well be an elephant in the room regarding this, but many of us take pride in our company, customers and reputation.
Hence many (most?) will prefer FO at a legacy to a command at a LCC.