IN COLOMBIA there is a saying = IT is easier to get into heaven than to get into AVIANCA. I was there for 1 year in 1986. Captains get a lot of respect, they had a clause in the pilot contract that stated their sons had a hiring preference, that was why some guys in my class only had 250 hours mostly cessna 150 time. For the most part you needed a recomendation from some one that worked there to get in. The pay is low compared to USA or europe, but cost of living in colombia is LOW, and AV gives you a lot of bennies, like home loans etc. I was on the 727, so I am sure much has changed...but they didn't cut any corners and besides....colombian women are GORGEOUS!!!!