LFFC,
I'm not entirely sure where this time to command timeframe is coming from???
I think it comes down to what you want to command. The time for SH command is coming down already below 8 years and will, probably, drop further.
I have a mate at First Choice who has waited 9 years for a command, so the grass isn't always greener.
A LH command will take you longer as thats the natural progression within the company but at least on the way to your SH command you will have had a dabble at curved earth flying if you want it.
p.s. not advertising just showing it how I find it
p.p.s. Everyone that joins pushes us ALL up the ladder one, think about it
edit: Just seen Scroggs's post so sorry to repeat!!!!
Also RAFCARS/Managed path only lets you get past the initial online selection routine as you normally need a CPL/ATPL number to fill it in.