Both Gulfstream new hires in my initial class failed their oral exams.

One could not explain how a turbofan engine operates on the lowest level i.e. where the compressor and turbine sections where or if the N1 was driven by the low or high pressure turbine.

The sim sessions did not fare any better with a "sink rate" crash and sliding 90 degrees sideways down the runway.

Based on my limited experience with these experienced Gulfstream F/O's, I could not recommend the program to anyone.

Not to be dramatic, but Airline Pilot Central Forums turned my head around about what goes on in this industry. People who don't read APC or the one other such forum like it don't really know what's going on. I originally thought hours are king for new pilots, and was prepared to do some rather foolish things- not as foolish as Gulfstream, but still foolish- to get them. I would not have known about the recent dropping of hiring mins without reading about it here first, nor would I have known about the ultra low pay FOs receive. I think the latter may change by the way.

Case in point, I have a friend who spent 65,000 on a multiengine airplane in the pursuit of ME time. This airplane was a total lemon and he ended up spending another $50,000 due to rotten engine mounts and worn out landing gear. When I told him some places are down to 50 hours ME for applicants, he just about fainted. He could have avoided the whole thing if he had known that, and flown them at the local FBO.

Ouch, I think I just about fainted when I read what your friend did to get multi time. How is it that people have $110k to throw around like that?!

I mean, I have a really good job, and I don't even have an airplane!