The managers aren't fools and they know pretty well that some pilots do sell their abilities in exchange of some nice layovers in america, a slightly better roster and, of course, the chance of flying a big jet.
That's how low we're getting here !
Absolutely, Azul is simply taking advantage of those pilots desperate to break into the industry and willing to accept any conditions to sit in the right seat. The managers know that they can pay poor salaries because there will always be someone willing to work for what they are offering.
Very few of the people I know flying there are planning a long term career, most are simply building hours and experience waiting for an opening at one of the bigger operators.
TTFN