Originally Posted by
bozobigtop
FE's training and the job has nothing to do with flying the aircraft itself. What you will do is work harder than the Capt and F/O operating the aircraft systems. If you done any A&P stuff this will take the sting out of understanding and operating the various systems.
I agree. Hardest job on the aircraft.
For what it's worth, my advice is to be cautious about accepting a job as a flight engineer at any airline. Many of these type airlines will hire a pilot as a flight engineer and keep you in the back seat because it's convenient for THEM. I'm not suggesting IFL is this way, but It's easier for them to just hire qualified FO's into the right seat than it would be to upgrade you, then have to hire and train another FE to replace you. Gentlemen's agreements don't mean much in this business, so I would try and get something in writing saying they will put you in the upgrade program when you get your minimum qualifications. Airlines only care about making $$ and they will tell you whatever you want to hear.
Yes, if you're hired, you will get a B727 type rating. If you don't have your ATP, these type airlines will probably still hire you, and the examiner will combine your ATP with your type ride.
These airlines like to hire young, hungry pilots because they know they will do whatever the company wants. QOL is not good, unless you live in Michigan. You will be on call all the time. TONS of duty time, but not much flying time (maybe 35-50 hours a month).
Turbine time is turbine time, so if it was me, I would go to work for Ameristar and fly my butt off, getting turbine PIC. That will be much more valuable to you than getting 727 FO time. Of course the FE time is totally worthless.