Alphaadrian, bonded and pay up front arrangements have happened in the past. Not sure how much experience you have but it may alter things a little. If you get the choice the Saab is really the aircraft to go for.
For those who are looking for a start, I would say go for it, apply. Don’t worry too much about the hours requirement, within reason. Just make sure you spend time on your CV. However, I would urge a note of caution with Eastern. Look very hard at what is being offered, how much, how long and where. Some great flight crew and trainers there, but much unhappiness as well. Unstable rosters, low salary, long bonds and the ‘company way’. I would not necessarily think about going the ops or cabin crew route either. Better companies are out there...
PG