I'm finally thinking about getting into LevelD 767 or PMDG 747. I had PSS 777, but really didn't do too well with it, specifically the AP. I've been flying sims since 1981. So, I'm wondering which heavy iron would be best for my abilities?

I should of added, I'd like something somewhat framerate friendly, even though I do have an i7 920 (OC'd to 2.7 ghz) with GTX 285, 8 gigs of RAM, 64 bit Win 7.

Well none are going to be easy, you really have to get the hang of one heavy to fully be able to handle other heavies like the 747s, 767s etc. I started with the 747 ironically and worked my way down to the 737, 777.

Like Haztronic says, neither are particulary "easy". However, both can be learned more easily than other realistic planes, thanks to tons of tutorials and videos on Youtube and other places. I have both, and they are fantastic packages-- must haves as far as I am concerned!

Get one of the new 737s - the iFly one at $54.95 available from Flight1 or the PMDG NGX which is just about to be released (tomorrow according to plan) at $70. The iFly version has more variants to choose between. The PMDG version has only the -800 and -900 versions in the initial release, with more becoming available later (at extra cost). The PMDG is supposedly more accurate, but the iFly is quite nice too. Both would be a good introduction to complex airliner flying. The iFly version has the advantage of a 30-day money back guarantee if for some reason you don't like it.

If you want to get a plane thats .middle of the road, take a look at the QW 757. It's complex enough to get your attention, but also easy to program and use.

I second the recommendation for the Quality Wings 757. Even with a somewhat simplified flight management system, t helped me learn the basic functions and "philosophy" of operating a modern airliner. Other systems are simplified, too, but in a logical way (e.g. you don't have to manage tasks that don't fall to the pilot flying). So as a newbie to airliners, I was able to get my bearings without being overwhelmed by dials and switches. After some time with it, I found it much easier to transition to PMDG-style deep systems simulations. I'm now one of the legion of people eagerly awaiting the PMDG 737, but the QW 757 helped get me there.