A jet's a jet. That was the average qualification for regional newhires 10-15 years ago. Less, even.

Paying dues is relative. I spent the better part of a decade at a regional flying props and jets and thought I'd paid my dues. But then I fly with guys who lived in tents during the Gulf War or graduated from Top Gun and feel like I didn't pay enough.

Who cares. The best criteria, and what I guess United hiring has concluded, is attitude and a willingness to learn and succeed.