The really odd fact about all of this is that Adrian Swire did actually know the value of pilots and, indeed, was one himself. He owned and operated/sponsored a beautiful Spitfire and was the architect of the Cathay of the 70s and 80's that we all loved so much (Yes - I was there). Why did he allow the bean counters and associated dickheads to take over the running (ruining) of this Once Great Airline? Somebody at his level must have watched while the modernists spoilt everything that he and his representatives had created. In the name of money of which they had barrowloads?? Surely not. Maybe in the name of just survival when the Chinese Dragon barks. It can't be just about money.
If survival is what it's all been about - why not explain that to the Aircrew instead of declaring them the 'enemy' all those years ago. WE would have helped because we were involved and had helped to create the best Airline on the planet.
And where do you keep getting idiots like AT to do your dirty work?? "Judas" springs to mind - especially when referring to some of the most senior Aircrew…..
And we end up with CEO's like Ivan and his fuel hedging team that, collectively, make the Airline a laughing stock in the Hong Kong 'corridors of power".
How could the Swire stand by and watch all that happen?? Sure as Hell beats me.