The problem is simple, the solution very complicated. Basic econ, to many "qualified" pilots not enough jobs. Our only solution is to up the qualifications to fly for a regional, to slow the flow. You can preach unill you are blue if the face but no recent "grad" will turn down a job to progress his career with 90k of debt. (flight instruct for 15k or fly an erj for 15k), they understand that if they don’t take the job some boner will. So they are just as screwed as we are.
So what can we do?
1.) Require at least 1200 hrs to fly right seat 121. Better yet ATP
(This will be a start, most will have to instruct/fly cargo etc. for several years, thus some will move on to other careers. When they are qualified to fly for a regional they will be less willing to work for 15k.)
2.)Get rid of non FAA examiners.
(The feds give the toughest rides around. (ie. are not compensated for the check ride) Although I know some great examiners, most over the years have lost most of there business because of failing to many students. Instructors get offended when their student fails a ride, and as a result uses a easier examiner. When students fail check rides they get discouraged and are more likely to chose another career path.)
3.)Tighten up the money supply available for flying.
(This is already starting to happen, to many are defaulting on student loans because they cannot make the payments. Making lenders more aggressive with credit scores etc.)
Lets get united and get something done here. Any suggestions?