. The bottom line is that some pilots like to be associated with a particular brand. And everything that goes with that.
Since everybody asked my opinion:
Been there, done that: Flying left seat on wide bodies for small carriers, pax and cargo.
Also flown right seat for big firms, worlds largest nowadays, 15,000 pilots.
Had more fun doing the smaller airlines, big fish in a small pond and all that.
Working for huge airline gets a bit dull after a while, everything is canned and too much Standardization. During a recent simulator check they had changed the procedures and call-outs. Instead of calling for speed, it was now speeds.
The instructor kept hissing in my ear speedsss, not speed, confused me while trying to climb out on one engine after a V-1 cut. I flew the jet fine and put it back on the ground fine, but got dinged for the speeds, or speed call, still not sure what the problem was.
Don't need the status and recongnition of a major airline, but the benefits are great.
That being said, more work, less pay with a smaller outfit, but more fun. More pay, less work with a big one.
Would like to have my cake and it eat too.
Or just retire early, been doing this too much anyways.
Carry on chaps, without me..