Apparently times have change considerably since the 1960's regarding hiring of airline pilots, whether it be the Regional or Major Carriers.

I went through two airline hiring processes (getting hired both times, BTW), and they were NOT a walk in the park. I had guys wash out during both processes because they just couldn't 'hack it' like they needed to. But, back then, there was a larger pool of pilots to draw from I guess, so the airlines could be a little more demanding. While the first airline I went with only had a one month new hire program, the second airline I was with had a FOUR month program. After four months, they could tell if you had the "right stuff" or not. And, back then you flew the actual aircraft, not a sim. It was easy to see who was going to make it and who wasn't.

Glad I'm out of this racket !!