How much is zooming around the swamps in a -206 applicable to airline ops in a 737?
Lots, its called decision making. There is NO substitute for experience.
Been flying with a guy that has 2000 hrs as an MK co-pilot. Sadly you can tell that out of his 2000hrs on DC-8's and B742's that its all been cruise with AP engaged. Maybe 100 approaches and landings as PF. Of which a big chunk had been pattered by the captain. He is a good pilot, but 'inexperience' shows, specially at upgrade time.
I agree with the general thread. Instruct to 800hrs, then move to turbines and then a regional. When you have 3000hrs you have done a million approaches and the 'heavy iron' is easy.
But the really question in this thread is MONEY. There is a shortage of experience, 'cause unless you put it in at the bottom you wont get experienced pilots out at the top.
I dont see why we as pilots should take a dip in pay/conditions/status so some 'fish and chip' brits can go get drunk in Spain cheap.
