effectiveness
Harry
I agree with you that it's a shame how 4,000 pilots just follow a process that is clearly outside the books. Yes, CSRs would be great. But isn't their ultimate purpose to make the company and regulatory authority aware of an issue without endangering the individual? In the case of the check-in there is no doubt about their awareness. They do it on purpose.
As for the Pilot Union's empathy I can assure you that it's there. I have talked to them in person about my case and the general issues. They have also been contacted by other German colleagues. I say give it a try.