Is it similar to Qantas using the HS125 back in the 70's
SM,
In short, no.
The two main purposes were:
(1) Line pilots getting "factored hours" to meet promotional criteria, factored hours were a contrivance to try and circumvent date based seniority, and;
(2) License renewals for S/Os, because it was cheaper than a B707 per hour, because the simulators were not good enough, although those QF sims. were a damned sight better than some of the sims. CASA approves these days.
Tootle pip!!