Like I said, there are no absolutes. The system has always been about hours. Ironically, the F18 guy wasn't qualified to be an ATP at 1499 hours while the banner tow guy was. I'd not argue with you over who would probably make a better RJ F/O, though. I don't discount quality over quantity. I just don't think 300 hour RJ F/O's are, generally, a very good idea. There are exceptions. I met one yesterday. But I'm not impressed with the trend of the lowering experience levels to be an airline pilot.