As others have said, there's a world of difference between the two operating regimes.
Equally, you make the choice as to where you want to work eg, airlines / biz jets / GA / helicopters / product support for OEM's to name but a few examples. Don't get fixated on the airline world alone.
You will find the standards do vary in the civilian world from company to company however, but overall tend to be higher( this comes as as shock to many in the RAF when they make the transition although it is not to denigrate the RAF in any way) with the emphasis on yourself in contrast to the "chain of command" to make the often protracted decision process for you.
As for promotion, well that's up to you and whether you wish to move around. If, for example, you are on an outstation on the line, then it's usually dead mans shoes in contrast to being on a base where there are more Depts eg Quality / Maintrol / Tech services / Commercial.
Frankly, once you are out, just keep your eyes, ears and mind open, forget the RAF and it's rank structure but do remember the basics and the experience you have gained.