Originally Posted by
LAXative
Let's just say that since you are only a CRJ-200 F/O, you are at an extreme disadvantage from the get go. You have no experience with leading edge devices or flying jets with engines underneath the wings, with the requisite pitch changes with power. Plus it's a 747, a HUGE step up in complexity and size from a CRJ and you will have to know not only the jet at a Captain's knowledge level, but you will be grilled on international and oceanic crossing regs and procedures. Good luck, you'll need it coming from a commuter.
I respectfully disagree with you on this. I recently left Atlas but I did work in the training center for a short time. My experiences with "RJ" guys was pretty good. They knew how to fly. They were used to a lot of hands on time with the airplane. Automation, FMC, etc. came second nature. Yes the 74 is a big jet. Just look at it like you are flying a normal sized jet on a small airport. They do not spoon feed you and you have to use a bit of motivation and curiosity to be successful. I saw guys struggle who I did not expect to see struggle (former test pilots, other big jet drivers) and ones ace it who I expected to see struggle (no jet experience). All in all, it boils down to work ethic and attitude.
Lastly, things are opening up industry wide. If you want to aquire good experience and have a blast doing it, go for it. It comes with a risk and plenty of abuse from the company once on the line though.