Twieke....that goes along with such classics as:
"There only 2 types of aircraft, fighters and targets!"
Im at Cathay & ex-mil. Cathay recognise that FJ mates dont get the hours of civil counterparts. I do not however agree with the quality vs quantity argument you sometimes hear from the mil lads.
You are about to jumps through the same hoops as everyone else......it doesnt matter if you flew the Eurofighter, were a skipper at easydeath on a 737 or flew light twins around the Australian outback and humped kangaroos!
Once you get to the interview its a level playing field. You'll have to prove your worth as much as the next chap/lass.
As far as life in the cockpit.....nearly everyone has fab stories of daring do, no matter their background.
I quite enjoy everyones 'dits', FJ war-stories & dodgy Islanders bashing around Papua New Guinea.
It becomes patently obvious that the civy types cut their teeth flying in rediculous locations too.....instead of being shot at, they flew the worlds most underpowered aircraft with little to no support out of strips with no options and no bang-seat! (and that gets some respect immediately)
Its a personality game and the idyits come from all walks. Some civies have a chip on the shoulder and some mil types have a superiority complex. Both types become billy-no-mates very quickly on layovers.
BUT the goodnews is that the recruiting process weeds out 99% of the muppets and therefore 10hrs locked in the pointy end is by and large entertaining & educational. (and lets be honest, often tediously boring....but at least youre sharing the pain!!)
Quite honestly, Ive have never seen what all the fuss is about. Some people seem to bring out the worse in others..........and they always seem to fly with the worst crews!
Perhaps, if thats the case, some introspection might be in order!
Suits you Sir.