Cavok, I'm not sure how many pilots were hired since 2001, however Varig laid off 50 F/O this month. What caused this situation? Absence of a good planning, 9/11 events, and consequently traffic adjustments and fleet reduction, are some typical examples (or excuses, if you prefer). In fact, nobody that works at Varig Flight Operations Dept. can say or predict when they will return or how long pilots from the pool must wait until new admissions.. .By the way, unfortunately bad news is coming: TAM has announced that will reduce its international flights to FRA, ZRH and MVD. It's rumored that layoffs will occur. Rumors or realities it's a difficult moment for everyone involved with Brazilian commercial aviation issues.. .But, let's wait...and think positively!