Speaking as an ex-suit (in another industry), I think it must be difficult to manage pilots.
They have massive responsibility whilst flying, but little at other times. They are paid as well as most of the suits, often better. Due to crewing restrictions they have the time to 'network' and whinge. Unusually for highly-paid staff they are (in some airlines) unionised. Their skills can not be replaced, and are central to the organisation. In short, they are educated professionals doing the kind of job that in many other industries would be blue-collar (because flying is high-tech).
Any comments?
PS not all suits are CEOs earning millions