747 Capt @ 28 yr & F/O @ 21yr
18 perhaps a bit early, but I personally know 1 case of a F/O on 747-400 at 21 (min age in Europe for ATPL) directly out of flight school (1990). Also for sure know of a captain on 747 at age 28, and many examples in the early 30's.
BUT is that the goal? Once you are on the long-haul, one will see only a small part of flying. So you better did your real flying before.
Canada's problem is the old "supply & demand". Where else does an airline require a university degree to fly an airplane? They must require airplane designers not operators.
BUT does one want to live where the supply is low and the demand is high?????
In my humble opinion the equipment doesn't matter much (it wears off quickly). What matters is the lifestyle it offers and the company environment.
Cheers,
744