Do you think flight time is more important than a quality foundation? Why would a 500 hour CFI in a Cessna be more qualified to fly right seat in a CRJ than a 250 hour pilot with a DC-9 type rating and 14 months of CRM and human factors training? I'm really asking the question. I've heard arguments on both sides. I personally think both routes work just fine, but if you're going to do it in a shorter time frame I think you need the quality to back it up. Unfortunately, that quality costs $$$. That's the difference. I could get my ratings on my own then work as a CFI for a few years getting paid, or I could sacrifice almost a year and a half of my life, go into huge debt, and do it the CAPT way. I think there's sacrifices to be made going both ways. I just hope the bitterness toward CAPT grads isn't as pervasive on the job as it is in forums on the internet. I hope the CAPT grads are judged on their performance and ability as opposed to their background. Because really, if they do perform, does it really matter what their background is? Also, I hear alot about what the "airlines" are looking for, but when the executives from those "airlines" come to CAPT, they tell everyone that the CAPT students are what they're looking for. So you can see, I hear it both ways and it seems both sides are equally as passionate.

Also, keep in mind I'm only talking about regional airlines here. Majors and legacies are a whole nother story and they are certainly NOT looking at CAPT grads. That's where the lack of flight time definately comes in.