Yes, Astar does upgrade the FEs provided they are not over 60 years old. In addition to FE being the entry level position, its also the retirement plan for many of the Captains, so a new hire won't go far up the list. The guys that are upgrading from FE to FO right now have been there over 6 years. Some in the past have upgraded in as little as 1 to 1 1/2 years. A lot will depend on growth with DHL, so for now plan on 5 years. FO to Capt is taking 10+ years, again that could go down if there is any DHL or charter growth. But the pay is still o.k. and time off is good; 14 days off out of 28 for flying lines and 12 days off for reserve. Most days off are clean 7 or 6 day blocks. 2nd year FE pay is close to 6 year regional jet Capt pay on average.