Only when EK and every other airline short of pilots realises that these guys don't work for money will they be able to recruit and retain sufficient numbers. For pilots, the sweet spot is probably as you pass the net £100-120 mark, if you can live where you want. Add in flexible and part time rostering with commuting rosters and a civilised FDM procedures and proper training culture and you'll have to beat applicants off with a
stick.
But at the moment moment, there is a shortage for good reasons and it's not the money. I'll start with some. Some office **** thinks it's a good idea that their employees write nasty little reports on their colleagues. Some people can't fly and aircraft to save their lives, yet have commands of long haul, wide bodied ones for some a reason. Others want training that doesn't involve unreasonable jeopardy. Some don't like the climate where their employer is based. etc.