I don't know about today's environment but I do have a friend at DAL who was interviewed twice, turned down in about 1991 and later hired in 1996. But that was a long time ago, I don't know what "rules" they are using today.

Back in the mid '80's hiring boom, they wouldn't talk to you at all if you already were flying for another 'Major' ie. Republic, Alegheney, American, Eastern, etc. but I had a couple new hire class mates who were from People Express, and a few were in the UAL strike pool as well. You might want to contact whom ever you get an invite from and ask them directly.

But if they think you are 'not competitive', why would they be interviewing you in the first place? It's not about total time, it's about attitude.