I was thinking today about how bad things are across the industry and was wondering about different ways you may recommend to help get things moving in the right direction. It led me to question the hiring of lower time pilots and the insuring of those pilots.

What are your thoughts on firms strictly adhering to higher standards for employing pilots?

Do you think all pilots who are hired into an airline should posses an ATP?
Do you think all pilots hired into 135 operations should posses 135 minimums?

If the above were the norm, it would force pilots to become instructors, build time and experience. The majority of pilots in this scenario would be forced to obtain their CFI/CFII/and MEI.

Do you think this would help drive salaries back up?

According to the NTSB across the last 10 years, 50% of 121 operation accidents were due to pilot error. 97% of 135 operation accidents was attributed to pilot error. In GA pilot error is sited as 75% of the accidents.

Would it lead to safer operations?
Would it lead to lower insurance rates for companies?
How would this be regulated? FAA? Employers? Insurance companies?

I know there are many on this board that were hired to fly 135 below minimums and 121 straight out of a commercial multi ticket and others who built their time and moved on over 1000 or 1500 hours after instructing. I welcome all opinions. It's a rainy day and I am off work so I just wanted to talk some shop.