EP, it does happen. In my last job the assesment consisted of an extensive medical and a 20 minute sim check-no interview. That was for a very large Asian carrier. Prior to that- again an extensive medical and a one hour sim check. Again for a large Asian carrier. My current job; no sim, no medical, no interview. They had my c.v. for one day and we negotiated a price the next.
Having said that I am obviously not good enough for
VB.
I have been applying for two years and do know how to fly the 737 from the left seat. Go figure. Obviously being neither a s..b nor a 'lock-outee' and not knowing anyone who will bat for me is the answer.