Rosbif, 3 or so aircraft would make more sense in a country like Canada. (see Can Jet or Sun Wing for comparison)
I guess my thought on the pilot shortage issue is along the line that there are only so many 3,000 hr pilots out there who aren't in pretty good jet jobs and with AC, ACJ, WJ, CJ and others, hiring, it must make for slim pickings.
Now if it WERE 32 aircraft, holey moley! I don't think the numbers are out there, especially if the interview process culs the applicant pool.
I don't believe we have the 'experience' numbers to meet that kind of demand, but you never know.
As an aside, American Airlines recently retired 143 senior pilots in one day.
These are great times to be an ATPL and available. The buffet out there is tantalizing.
Cheers,
Willie