N42ER,
You're not confusing NJE (Europe) with NJA (America)? If you don't have European citizenship then NJE is not available. NJA & NJI have different requirements.
Turboprop time is fine for NJE. I cannot answer for NJA & NJI.
The JAA (or EASA) license is quite expensive and it's not a quick and easy process. That's another topic altogether.
However, I love the job and I think it's a brilliant combination of GA variety with airline quality equipment & pay.
PZ,
You'll note I said "pref" with respect to JAR25 aircraft. We have quite a few crews with us that have "only" had King Air time prior to joining.
Yes, you can join with less hours than what I stated however, since the flying rate is somewhere between 200-500 hours a year (depending), you're looking at 2-3 years at least before you'll have the hours for command. (Something to consider although the seniority list will probably slow you up more.)
We are all hoping the upswing happens soon. I personally cannot see any hiring for at least 6 months if not longer.