What hiring mins "were" does not matter. Case in point, the last time American was hiring a FE written was required. When they start to hire the minimums will reflect the state of the industry at that time. Keep in mind that minimums are typically not competitive at the majors - that is unless you knew somebody, like Cecil at American or Plato at DAL . Although I heard plenty of people had luck stalking them in parking lots and elevators.
Scoop