JackOff
There have been some valid answers given - my thoughts:
1. An older guy learning to be a Fast Jet pilot would find it tougher; it is physically and mentaly demanding and requires determination. It is much easier to learn when younger.
2. I imagine a recruiter would find a candidates motivation suspect if he'd waited years as an adult before deciding to apply.
3. There is a high fail rate in training due to the demands of the job, so they aim a trainee for FJ and although he may not make that he may make an excellent transport pilot or chopper guy. ergo they don't need to recruit people who join only wanting to fly the bigger stuff.
4. I am sorry that some ex FJ guys disappoint their civvy colleagues on the attitude side of things. IMHO there are people with bad attitudes from all backgrounds, but hopefully they are in the minority. It would be helpful if everyone would see as they find and not have preconceived ideas about pilots from different backgrounds.
5. I believe it is healthy to have a range of past flying experience in the civvy world. We all can learn from each other. The military pilots ethos is all about teamwork whatever they fly.
6. 411A - thankyou for your comments. I try hard to follow the ops manual. I also try and learn from my more experienced colleagues who have earnt the right to occupy the left seat. I am pleased to say that few of them display the preconceived ideas concept that I mentioned in para 4 - how about you?
7. Why do so many on these threads throw mud at each other - ok sometimes it's amusing. Wouldn't we be better occupied discussing how to maintain or improve our conditions, our job security and our status in an industry where all these things are on the slide?