I was teaching in the school house just over 10 years ago when a 747 capt tried and failed to go to the MD11. (56 years old and never been in glass before). He was sent to the DC10 right seat for 24 months and eventually made it thru MD11 school. I would bet the DC10 plumbers will be plumbers on the 727 within the year. They would be MUCH better off if some friend could convince them to go to the right seat for one bid, THEN jump to the left.) There are other factors that may increase their chances of sucess: Maybe they are currently flying the KC10 or C17? On the surface, the jump from panel to "sky god" is a big leap.