I can think of numerous that are in far superior condition than they were in service.
That said a hot ejection seat is a hassle and poses it's own risks that can create a headache that outweighs the benefit. Not to mention the technology depending on the installation might cause more damage to the pilot than a forced landing or bailout.
I don't fault someone or have any feelings one way or the other for deactivating their ejection seat(s)
We talking aircraft that are a product/child of war time or peace time? Operated by mostly draftees or volunteers? I'm not arguing against you, but this stuff matters IMO. And I agree, I've seen some really worn and used birds come out of the military and have a fantastic second life in good, dedicated, civi hands. The military uses them in war, and loves babying them in peace. At home base the COs like to see their reflection off of each rivet, at the cost of a units flying status or an individual's career if so be it. Out in the field they want as many flying and doing their job as possible, and are very content to just have every one of them just make it back home, day after day after day.
And I agree with the ejection seats being a lot of hastle. Might only be worth it for certain experimentals and performers who could possibley find themselves in a situation only survivable by an imediate ejection, if at all. For your average tail-drager aviator though, I would think there are alternative options that would be a better investment for the money?
