Minimums are based on supply and demand. If there is a low demand for pilots (like right now) The airlines can be picky and only hire high time guys which are much easier to train, and cheaper to insure. When there is a higher demand for pilots the airlines will have to be less picky. There is also a big difference between hiring minimums and competive minimums. There is not much chance for a guy with less than 1500 hrs right now. they'll be back to hiring 500 hr guys before we no it.