Stanstead - is command the be all and end all? Ok it is a long time to wait but the quality of life and the pay as an FO in Virgin after that time would surely be substantial?
Would the pay not be approaching the equivalent of an easyJet captain?
I am often under the impression that people chase the left hand seat to the detriment of all other considerations. LHS shorthaul low cost may pay more in the short term but the work is very tough and you miss out on seeing the world!
Just my thought!