XR,
If all the C & T positions were filled from pilots from the west and experienced ATR pilots, then why did Skywest advertise 4 weeks ago in the Australian for these positions. Those who applied for the EOI include Ejet captains with at least one being a training Capt on it. The Ejet and the ATR 72-600 have a very similar cockpit and although Skywest may have got experienced ATR pilots I bet none of them have operated a fully integrated/advanced flight deck like the -600 and Ejet.
What about the talk CASA could make the -600 a different endorsement to the -500? If that happens then having experienced ATR pilots doesn't mean much.
Also when we hear Skywest ATR pilots saying "if they (Virgin) come over here for a command, then we want a command at Virgin" doesn't help.