Back on topic for a second:
A&C - unfortunately it's really not news that this practice goes on. All of the big integrated schools - OAT, EPFT, Cabair etc - make it VERY clear when you talk to them that they will only put forward integrated students for airline positions. Lets face it - it's the only logical reason for forking out the extra cash and it's the key marketing tool they have. Having said that, EPFT were giving hints recently that they believe that they'll soon have more airline placements available than integrated students (competent ones anyway) and so modular students might get a look-in - but I would suspect they'll find some way of charging you for that which is fair enough in context of the the current market philosophy.
But like WWW (Lord of the modular wannabees - all hail WWW!) says often on these boards, integrated courses are not necessary the way to airline jobs. As a modular student I (have to(!)) believe that if the market picks up then integrated students will struggle as airlines will be forced to look outside their current cost driven recruitment methods as the average integrated student quality will fall and the vested self-interest of the schools will eventually affect the bottom line of the final employer.
To dis80786 - if you've not got a limitless supply of cash and have saved to DIY then why go integrated? What do you think you'll achieve that's worth 20k? As an integrated student it's almost expected these days that you'll also pay for your 737 rating - how will you afford that if needs be?
The key question I'd love to ask integrated students is 'how will you get a job if you're NOT recommended by your FTO?' Surely the risk of having a big L stamped on your forehead means you should be paying LESS than a modular student for taking the risk? Ask OAT what happens to their graduates who don't get put forward.........
So yes - the current system is that integrated go forward, better modular get left behind. In fairness - caveat emptor applies to modular students too - if you didn't know this going in then there is no point bleating about it now! Personally, my risk profile is relying on the big employers realising/being forced to accept that taking students from FTOs with differing financial aims is not a long term viable option. Could backfire badly but you never know (which is what makes it fun really!).
Viva la revolution.......
UTR