Cx/ ka pilots still report 30-40 mins early , in their immaculately ironed uniforms ( by their domestic servant) , spouting SOPs and where the A350's going to next. They are wedded to their jobs more than most. Being a pilot, you ultimately love your vocation , regardless of your employer.
( ditto EK QR et al)
CX were the leaders when I started out . Their pilots perhaps still believe they are , but it doesn't matter, lets hope the whole lot implodes, and a Phoenix arises.