The FCI detailing new requirements for upgrade was originally introduced late May of 2009 (Check out FCI 2011-005 which is a reissue of the original). Prior to this time there was no 4000 hour "hard time requirement" to upgrade. Hard time being in aircraft above 55T.
Caynine and Fatbus I know of the 55T issue you reference it's not the same as this.
Many capable F/O's are getting screwed for command by this. Many with multiple thousands of hours of jet PIC already just not above 55T.
It'll be close to 6 years for these guys to upgrade all the while some career F\O's who have been flying round Europe their entire career in 73's or 320's are deemed more qualified just because they flew marginally larger a\c.
PIC time we are told is the Holy Grail, get it and never pass up a command they say, well that's all well and good but it don't matter for nowt at EK.
Size matters here just like their TALL empty skyscrapers.
Regards
IH