The finger seems to be pointed at the Pilots terms and conditions as the sole cause of the airlines current financial state. Whilst very generous they are only a small factor in the current mess and a deeper more thorough examination of the airline needs to be undertaken. Obviously this won't be done in order to protect highly placed vested interests.
Longer than normal sick leave is normal for flight crew as a higher standard of health is required when on duty than compared to an office job where you can simply go home if you feel unwell. Likewise longer maternity leave would be normal especially if pregnancy suspends the Pilots medical for the full term.
Separate hotels for flight and cabin crew are also provided in some other airlines such as SQ. However the cabin crew deserve better than 2*.
With the majority of the Pilots being white male, they are an easy target, however the non white first officers coming through are looking forward to the day when they move into the left hand seat and expect to enjoy the same benefits as the current Captains.
Note that two white Pilots were shown in the article as it was adverse to SAA, had it been favourable the demographic shown would have been different.