They survived by upgrading FOs with a minimum of 3000hrs on type, usually many more, with a proven track record, and unlike DECs joining us from outside, a good level of exposure to a network that most other airlines who operate and handfull of 777s would never have seen. Oh and one more thing, our FOs have operated just about every varient of 777 that exists, not just one or two.
Don't get me wrong I think we need all the pilots we can get, but many a so called experienced 777 qualified pilot has come here and flunked, some have been outright dangerous...our FOs are highly experienced, well trained and competent, so if your coming here as a DEC don't make the mistake of thinking that you’ll breeze through just because you have a bit of time on type.