There maybe some misinterpretation as to the role of a 2nd Officer. In the UK, Britannia (now Thomsonfly) have 2nd Officers who are just FrATPLs. When they hit the 1500 hrs and have the Green book issued, they are First Officers. Their job is just the same.
I read with interest at some of the comments by Rosbif or Global Nomad. What other choices does someone with 250 Hrs FATPL have? Currently it is a buy your own rating gamble where there is no guarantee of emplyment at the end. With the QR scheme, it "seems" like the traditional bonded arrangement where you must stay for 5 years and repay your type rating costs. You can still leave if you can pay the bond back.
If a low hours guy had gained just 500 hrs on type, he would instantly become more marketable with other airlines should the situation with QR be worst than expected.
Well done QR
