Eager:
I will blame people as many other will for those that fund their own ratings. This debate has raged on for a few years now but its is clear that those carriers that do ask for you to pay for your job are feeling the pinch and it will only get worse. A few ads I have seen lately even go as far as making it clear that SSTR is not required only a bond. Easy and Ryan are in a pickle and from what we are seeing its only going to get worse.
Anyone willing to pay for a rating in this environment is 'Financially Challenged'. No offense to any of you out there but turbo-prop operators in the UK are screeming for pilots so go get a free rating and build some multi crew time. Before you know it a WELL ESTABLISHED carrier will give you a rating and full salary from the day you join. Serioulsy folks..................