If everyone stopped right now and stood their ground then the airlines would have to give the right person the job as opposed to the wealthy person or the one who is willing to take the biggest risk re repayment.
This will never happen as human nature is greed before commonsence for the bigger scheme. This is the same reason why the managers realise they can push pilots to the wall as somebody will always do what they want.
If you pay you are just absorbing the costs of the company you want to work for. Some call that an investment for your own future. Alas you can bet your house that the company will not ever do anything of the sort in return.
Paying is like cancer. Once it starts it wont stop unless something drastic is done. You will get in the seat then sit there and realise this but justify it to yourself that what you did was right.
DONT PAY is my vote. Everyone stand firm and let the airline employ you because you are the best for the job.