Originally Posted by BeatNavy

Flaps (if he is who I think he is) is young enough to be your kid. Expect commensurate maturity/experience (life, not necessarily flying experience) when you strap in and see someone half your age in the left seat. If you have a good attitude, can learn well (and be fast enough to keep up with the multitude of things going on), you'll be fine. I was really worried when I came to Mesa, as it was my first 121 job and way different than the flying I did in my previous life. It was a very easy transition. And most captains I've encountered (and FOs as well) enjoy helping new FOs learn the ropes for things not discussed in initial/IOE. Fortunately I haven't had many with the attitudes displayed by guys like flaps who are too good to carry on cockpit conversation, explain things, etc.

And, FWIW, the airline I am moving to, and two others I've talked to at job fairs, put more emphasis on my previous leadership roles and life experiences than they did on my flight hours. They said anyone who is currently in the 121 environment can obviously fly, what separates you from everyone else? Leadership is leadership, and judgment is judgment when you know the parameters and variables involved. Life experiences do matter, even in the 121 world.

That said, the older folks in my class were the ones that struggled the most, but some young and middle aged guys did as well. I don't disagree it's a trend and that learning is more difficult the older you get, but it's not impossible. I just disagree with the attitude and blanket statements against older folks by some of these whippersnappers, especially the ones who got too big for their britches with that 4th stripe, or those who have never worn a 4th stripe and try to speak against the old 2nd career FOs, but who have never even flown with any (that's you scottydo).