Also note, you get issued a QCAA license, not EASA, not FAA etc. but yes, it is 5 years on the bus as an FO but hey, after that you're free to apply/transfer given the right circumstances and converting your MPL. For those thinking of applying, visit Doha for a week or 2 and see if you / family can live there. It WILL be your home a long time. Personally, i'd say the program still has its benefits. 5 years bond actually works in favor of the MPL holder to pay off that 109k.
Also unlike other P2F / MPL programs, the pay is FO salary (SO until you pass Line training i believe). There are benefits and drawbacks, this is not an option for those trying to get on a jet asap and then leave, this is a career/life decision which wouldn't be too bad with QR as they got hundreds of long range aircraft on order.
OMAAbound - if your friend chose this program with the mindset to leave after 1500 or doesn't like living in the Middle East or wants to upgrade so soon, well that's just poor decision making
