skysherrif
Apologies for the delayed reply - I have to work sometimes!
I didn't say that 200-hour fATPLs shouldn't fly jets, but I do believe that more experience is desirable before you get in a 737 rhs. It would appear that Ryan and EZ agree with me, as they both require applications only from 737-rated pilots - and these pilots will need 500 hours on type to be considered. Your paid-for 737 rating won't help here, I'm afraid.
As for low-hour pilots flying bombers in WW2, I think a comparison of chalk and cheese would be closer! The needs and priorities of the RAF in 1939-45, combined with the relative paucity of suitable candidates, forced that situation. The safety of the aeroplane and its contents weren't high on the list of priorities! The 'boom times', as you call them, when many low-hour pilots were getting jet jobs, really only lasted from 1998-2000 and were not typical of the last 20 or 30 years.
Anyway, I don't decide who gets what job where, I just expressed a personal opinion. Whether you share it is neither here nor there - but I'll bet that most experienced pilots would agree with me, as would the airlines' insurers!
The main points you all should take from this thread are:
1) Whether or not you agree with their recruitment tactics, EZ and Ryan offer good terms and flying for inexperienced pilots. Don't dismiss them because you disapprove of their procedures.
2) Paid-for, third-party type ratings without associated line training are a total waste of time and money.
3) The jobs market is beginning to move, so have faith. However, there are now, as there have always been, more wannabes than jobs. Work hard to distinguish yourselves above those you will be competing against.
4) Look beyond just the jet operators for that first job.