5x5.. was beginning to suspect it may have been semantics.
SF/O vs Relief F/O etc.
The experience level is a topic that is bought up time to time on the Pax fleets too it seems.
Fortunately I am not in a position to be bypassed by any of the agreements that were made, however I see your point, and if I knew of any "timely email" that would have delayed RC, I would have been over it like a rash.
Good on the guys doing a frt command with 4 years in the jet. Can be likened to pax f/o's who joined as S/O and have done 4 years in the RHS also.
Sadly that dark pilot side in some comes out when they see someone 8 years younger, and 5 years more senior (list wise) getting a run at command. Can't speak for the fr8tr, but on the pax fleet I think it is fair to say, if you make the grade, you make the grade!
No point stressing, there will always be someone youger, faster, better looking, smarter, more senior, etc etc. Just give yourself an ulcer thinking about it too much.