Originally Posted by Kilgore Trout

... The idea of placing needless b.s. in the path for those to come in hopes of raising one's security and financial status really rubs me the wrong way. If you feel that way, take a look at aviation around the world. You basically have to be a fortunate son or daughter, or have some major nepotism going on to get into professional, or even fun flying if you live overseas. The U.S. has the most freedom, yes, even now, for an individual who wants to enter aviation. It should stay that way...