Originally Posted by
HercDriver130
I would say those Euro abinto programs are more like military training programs than like your local FBO. Its all about training and confidence.... When I was in the AF our typical upgrade to the left seat was at 2 years and 700-800 hours in the right seat. That was on the C-130, but when done with upgrade you are fully qualified for Tactical Airland and Airdrop, etc.... hell my first "A" code trip was from Pope AFB to Goose Bay, Canada on to Frankfurt, Germany then Sigonella, Italy finally on to Azraq, Jordan. 6 weeks deployed then back to the states.....
Experience, training and individual ability should all be a factor in upgrade.
I don't know a thing about military training, but you are right about the Euro Ab Initio training. It is highly selective and highly structured. Those 200-300 hour pilots on Airbuses and Boeings are perfectly qualified to be sitting there.
I am sure the military training is selective and tough as well, which is why those guys don't usually have trouble with airline training AFAIK.
Ironically, two of the worst pilots I have flown with have been ex-military. But so has one of the best. Former B-52 commander. Gets it in every respect.