Hey SEP
Understand all your issues posted... Yes Japan, Taiwan, and Korea Terms and Conditions have not kept pace with other areas around the world...
The application process is very much the same at ALL Japanese Carriers... I would caution anyone coming to a Japanese Contract as a NTR DEC... Adapting and learning the "Kata" on aircraft you know requires work... On a aircraft you are teaching yourself, Very Difficult... So keep that in mind with entering a NTR program as a Non JCAB ATPL holder, the exception being Air Japan...
With regards to days off the USA programs do offer more time off... Many places around the world 8-10 days off are the norm... Here in Japan the norm for the locals are 10 off...
Good luck with your future career moves...
For all other onlookers, the water is fine here at IBEX... Come on in... My understanding slots are still available for the Feb screening... IBEX covers the RT airfare and hotel... Come checkout Tokyo...
Kampai, Jpncrjdriver