I can see where he's coming from. It would drive me crazy to be an F/O for five to nine years (Eagle, Mesaba) and see no career movement, or experience a career-killing industry downturn. In addition, I'm all for seniority systems in the airlines, but l PERSONALLY would like to work under a meritocracy (just a personal preference, no knocking seniority). Some people seem really cool with "going with the flow," and I admire that. However, I feel like I would be disappointed operating in such an environment.
You can read more of my personal thoughts in this thread:
http://jetcareers.com/forums/showfla...b=5&o=&fpart=1
J.