hpcock
A well reasoned explanation. It is a shame you didn't put all that down the first time. Mentioning such a 'label' without explaining it serves only to continue the spread of it...
I fly in the UK. There are two main ERJ operators and they are suffering from crewing problems as they cannot stem the flow of pilots to other airlines with bigger and brighter machinery. The rating hasn't held anyone back, quite the contrary.
However, I agree that to spend your own dosh on an ERJ type rating at the prices mentioned is pure folly. A 737 rating is cheaper and there are more operators to target.
G-LOST