True minimums are 2500 TT 1000 MEL (perf 1000 turbine, and PIC). True, times are all over the place because of people's background. Airline guys have more time than the corporate. But I dont think 5000 TT is accurate for the Competitive times. Just depends on your background and how you do on the interview. Looks like still hiring around 8-10 per class, and at least one class per month sometimes 2. I would say about 50 new hires in last 6 months.