As an ex-MD-80 Captain and LCKA, I can confirm the MD is different from most of today's 3rd generation MCP/FMS/autopilot/autothrottle airplanes. That said, even though its "old" technology there is no reason why a junior DAL pilot could not go through the DAL training program, get signed off and successfully complete the DAL IOE program. Those training programs are FAA approved and certified.

As I said before, the candidate in question probably has a ton of Civilian 121 or military flight time and training or he/she wouldn't be a DAL pilot in the first place. Sorry, Lobeaux, but I think you're off base on this one.