I would rather have a 21 yr old with the higher time. I say this on the assumption that the 21 yr old has probably been an aviation rat his whole life and is probably way more motivated and ready to learn. I also believe the 21 year old will be able to learn quicker. In my own personal opinion those that truly love the art of flying as most very young aviators do, their motivations and abilities are different from those of other career changers.

Or age 65, whichever comes first.

That and being female/minority and/or having connections in high places.

OTOH an older person willing to go through the risks of changing careers and chasing a low-paying regional job probably loves flying more than some cocky kid chasing the major airline pilot dream.

As far as being a woman, I'd say yes, it did help me to wear a brown uniform. To say that age does not help with a persons maturity is wrong. So many things happen in life that mold you to be the person that you are, and ONLY experience will do that (not a ERAU or perdue (don't) degree)! Just my two cents.

Good luck with that bitterness buddy. Let's see how far it takes you in life...

So can we deduce from your statement that female/minority are a shoo in when it comes to hiring... Man I am sure you are a pleasure to fly with! <sarcasm> If you continue to view every minority/female like that you my friend will be a bitter person for a very long time...

So true..Doesn't make sense that a piece of paper should weed out experienced pilots, but I guess that's the only thing they can come up with.
Guess I should start working on my bachelors degree in underwater basket weaving so I can apply at the majors.:D

Screw underwater basket weaving! What you need to do is get accepted to the University of Colorado Boulder and major in the art of glass blowing. Then tell K4 to take a hike and get on as a pilot with Tommy Chong Transport.:D