At least the global pilot shortage is not an issue, with many ex-Ansett and Australian pilots who went overseas after the bitter and protracted 1989 pilot strike seeking positions. A recent advertisement for 777 direct-entry captains for the 787 attracted more than 100 applicants, says Joyce. "We also had 2,000 applications for A320 positions."
Two questions there are:
1. How many actually met the criteria
2. How many will accept the job if offered.