I’m surprised. I have always appreciated that flight attendants and pilots usually leave the f/c cabin to the passengers, even with many open seats. Last week, for example, the lead f/a asked a pilot whether he would be more comfortable in f/c; he declined with thanks and sat in coach. My only thought is whether this is a contractual requirement when the crew may be traveling to an international departure.
I’ve always been impressed that our carrier of choice does not seem offer employee class!