And that's the reason why I am suggesting to HS to go in as a training Capt so he won't have to pay. With his hours, I'm sure an airline would give him the training he needs down the track..... but sometimes, a company will still require their Captains to pay a bond. Either that or you pay for your own endorsement or LHS time.
I've even heard of a chinese airline asking their Capts to post a $30,000 bond and take your passport so you won't leave before your contract is fulfilled and/or have paid the training cost if you leave before the contract is up.
It can get very tricky Capt Wooblah. You and I are probably lucky that we live in a country that we don't experience these requirements but, outside it's a very different story for LCCs.
Having said that, I'm sure HS would rather not pay if he was given the opportunity to be hired as a training Captain. But if he is stuck, then can we really blame him.