HB,
Excellent post, captured eloquently.
One thing you left off (perhaps a post script to point one), Chek Lap Kok is rapidly becoming a disaster. Halfway into a flight to HK, the ATIS scrawls out, "blah blah....expect 30mins holding", with reasonable wx. Once the frequent transient passengers realise they need to add 30-45 mins per HK transit, they'll seek alternatives. EK/QF from Aus, ETC.
I agree (unfortunately). This airline is rapidly seeking it's own demise. :-(
EDIT: STW: I previously hadn't appreciated the ridicule toward you......until now.