Some serious food for thought...
So 9 years on a low salary, gaining small increments until year 9 when you go onto a full year 1 DEFO contract..
A ball park figure of 800 hrs a year, over 9 years, equals 7200hrs. I'm guessing anyone with this amount of time would be well on their way to a captains job?
On the face of it, it does not look that good of a deal as it first appears. I think this sponsored scheme is aimed at an age group of 18-25, and not really the older generation. Most people over that age might struggle as we're more likely to be married with a family?
It's a good way to the RHS of a career airline, somewhere where you could possibly never leave? But make sure you go in with your eyes open, lots to think about if the above figures are correct.
If you have the time, (for comparison) a friend is going to start line flying after completing the BAFPP. He came out with a f-ATPL and a full time year 1 FO contract on completion.