Salamalecom, it always amuses me when male, non-pilot, airline management types like yourself, can’t contain their envy for the real men and women who actually fly the airplanes. Hilarious.
For you ‘managers’ out there, ask yourselves: On a normal day, what would be the worst that could happen if you suddenly die behind your desk? Worst case? Absolutely nothing. Would anybody even notice? Then ask yourself: On a normal day, what would be the worst that could happen if an operating Captain suddenly dies in the cockpit? Worst case? The aircraft crashes and everybody dies.
In short, society (in the interest of public safety) doesn’t care if you die at work. On the other hand, society (in the interest of public safety) cares a great deal if a pilot dies at work. Hence we are tested, scrutinized and poked before deemed fit for the responsibility we shoulder. How often is your capability to manage your desk tested?
Have a think about that as you make your way to the ladies room.