Originally Posted by SEPfield

Ok just to throw my .02 into the argument.

I spent 4 years as a regional FO before I went to EK in Dubai. If I had been taken from right seat in an RJ and dropped in the right seat of a 737/320 at DL,UA, AA, etc, there would have very little learning curve to overcome. With the exception of learning a new aircraft and SOPS, Which comes with every new job, there was very little new information to absorb. I was already knowledgeable of US airspace, terminology, airport procedures, weather patterns, divert options, etc.

When I went to EK and started flying internationally I was amazed at the things I didn't know, that I didn't know. In addition to learning how to fly a widebody aircraft, which requires a more definite plan in dealing with inertia and energy management, which simply is not a factor in flying RJs, there is the additional knowledge of international flying. Things such as NAT tracks, SLOP, ITCZ, inflight broadcast in Africa/China, metric conversion, FIR boundary crossings, air defense clearance, oceanic clearance, Etc (excessive use of Etc.)
It's not that these things are overly difficult and can't be taught, its the knowledge of knowing that you need to know. Recognizing that your flight plan takes you over PURPA and you should probably review your driftdown procedures.
I was fortunate that during my time at EK I was able to fly with some very experienced and knowledgable Captains that taught and mentored me in the early times. Very fortunate because when EK started hiring DECs again I found myself having to assist the new Captains in the same manner.
Now due to poor working conditions EK is losing the type of experience that helped to guide me during the beginning of my international career, and it sounds as though Atlas is making the same mistake. They are failing to realize that no matter how good their training department is, the real instruction occurs during line flying from experienced Captains offering advice and suggestions to the less experienced.

I personally would love the type of flying done at Atlas, I'm currently back in the US as a captain on CRJs, but I just can't rationalize accepting the pay for what you're being asked to do and operating in what has become a toxic work environment. If the company can change before a legacy calls I would love the opportunity to learn from your experienced Captains, assuming any are left by that time...