Username, thanks for someone finally posting some intelligent, well-reasoned comments in a debate that usually provokes endless emotional flaming from both sides.

- Your points are all well-taken. 1000 or so hours of dual given make one a better pilot, even though many seem to question and openly deride the value of teaching pattern work in a 172.

- Alas, the reality is, with the decline on new student pilots, the growth of regionals, and the ever-declining regional QOL, low-time FO hires are a reality that's likely here to stay.

- One can only hope the regionals improve their QOL , raise their standards (yeah, like either of those are going to happen ), or at least develop ab initio programs that can teach low-timers the right way from day one.

BTW, love your "username"