Just seen a writeup on this topic in FTN – a UK FTO newsletter. One generally knows how it works but this piece really struck me.
It would really do my head in to spend so much of my life flying but so rarely making any friends.
My wife and flew together to Hong Kong a few years back with Cathay. It was my birthday so the crew made a nice fuss of me, including a birthday cake and a cockpit tour (after landing). About a year later my wife did the same flight again – and recognised one of the crew from that flight. She (the crdew member) was absolutely astounded, first to be on the same flight and second that my wife would remember.
Also a few years ago I did SFO-Guangzhou with China SOuthern, and on my return flight a week later had the same crew member. We were both pretty surprised by that too.
so rarely making any friends
Friend. Not sure for you, but thanks to Facehook et al, the word has lost its meaning.
Also not sure about what a big airline is, in my first we were like 1200 flight crews, my second 1500, my third about 70 (yep, u sure “knew” em all), and my last one many thousands.
Being defined as a lone eagle, I never felt as the author details it here. Flying the line whilst trying to do a good job takes some dedication, and that is the job you’re being employed for.
Social interaction, if so desired, can take place after hours.
Dan wrote:
in my first we were like 1200 flight crews, my second 1500, my third about 70 (yep, u sure “knew” em all), and my last one many thousands.
You make me curious. I think I know the last one but the first 3 would be interesting to know.
In my 45 years in aviation I’ve been associated with many airlines and while it’s certainly true that the larger the airline the less you fly or work with the same people, still there is usually quite a comradship within the companies. The one airline I did work for, we were approximately 50 folks altogether and some friendships from that time last until today. Out of the other fields, I regularly see people I used to work with and we usually have a great time remembering the fun we had.
From the times I worked in dispatch and as supervisor I recall many names from various airlines who usually keep reoccurring once the airlines are gone. Some I found back on facebook or similar media and we correspond from time to time. Spantax, Pan Am, CTA, Swissair, Balair, Aerojet, British Islands, B-Tours just to name a few.
Next instalment from that airline pilot; this time talking about the positives:
Thought this was about life in a big airline(er) 
As in van life
