The problem is that there were fewer eligible pilots to upgrade from the FO ranks. Plus, I'm sure the company would rather upgrade experienced saab CAs to the 900 than to have a wet behind the ear 1500 hour guy in command of the 900. Not to mention... how do you think all the seat-locked veterans on the saab would view new hires going to 900 CA? It only made sense to release saab seat-locks. This time it seems, the company saw the benefit in extra costs.