We aren’t technically hiring “direct entry captains” in the sense most people take it to mean. It’s not like regionals where you apply specifically to be a direct entry captain.

The captain spots are simply biddable vacant positions offered in newhire training. Just as you would bid for your fleet type, some positions now offered are captain spots. If you’re senior enough for one to still be available when it comes your turn to pick, you can choose it.

Then, as already stated, you go to FO training first and spend your time in the right seat fulfilling your requirements. Then you’ll go to upgrade training after that.

Basically, you’re locking in a captain spot for yourself for the not too distant future, not really becoming a captain on day one.