SUPPLY AND DEMAND
What we are considering is the simple question of supply and demand.
The last time I can recall demand exceeding supply was 1986-1989. Gulf war 1 started in August 1990 and turned the 7 year historical cycle on its head.
I recall someone at Oxford (700 hour route) in 1986 being offered a job in anticipation of passing the IR followed by licence issue.
A further newly qualified CPL/IR had an interview at Leeds lasting 3 minutes.
"show me your licence......... That's fine. Can you start Tuesday?" Reply "yes".
So the "cutoff" as to who you employ is a function supply and demand. So in the good times, the less able do get an opportunity. They take longer to complete the line training etc, as their learning curve is not as good. They might eventually become competent.......