There aren't many FOs to upgrade in the company because many are tempted by the insane salaries in the sand pit and bugger off before they have enough time to switch seats. The guys who stay do get command eventually but there aren't enough to meet the growth demands.
Captains take home about USD7000 which considering the cost of living is a very good salary. The TR is paid for by the company but there's a bond.
As to hiring non-typed FOs into the left seat I really don't see what the big deal is. Airmanship and command potential have nothing to do with how many hours someone has on type, the sim check isn't looking at knowledge of the aircraft or handling as much as it is management of the flight deck.
They've stopped hiring non-typed FOs into the left seat now anyway, you either need the rating or previous command elsewhere.
S.
Last edited by babotika; 24th Oct 2009 at 22:21.
Reason: spelling