As I see it this is just a stop gap solution until the introduction of MFTS (did I just say that, ha, ha). The current training system for ME pilots is woefully inadequate. At best they get 100hrs single piston (Firefly), broken down to JEFTS and MELIN. At worst 100hrs Bulldog spread over 4 University years and a 30hr MELIN top-up. They then step from that to the Jetstream which a considerable number find quite a challenge.
The Jetstream is falling to pieces, poor serviceability and recurring snags are commonplace. The Oxford plan is just a cheap unstudied method of squeezing a few extra pilots through for OCU places.
We are supposed to be Investors In People (Ha), are we investing in our young pilots by given them such minimal or slap dash training, I think not.
I remember when we trained for excellence, now perhaps we train for competence (or maybe even mediocrity.)
Now that’s off my chest where’s those 2 pencils - Wibble.