I am considering the purchase of the PMDG 747, one question, can I start and fly it without going through the l-o-n-g process of learning?

The short answer is no. It is an extremely complex product and you will not be able to even begin to enjoy it without investing a lot of time reading very technical information in the massive manuals included.

 

On another note, this question really belongs in the PMDG forum, or the FSX forum. This forum is for modelers and programmers to discuss technical matters... B)

Fr. Bill is right. Almost all flight sim enthusiasts are not real world pilots who fly the heavies and we have all learned how to fly them by flying the tutorials, reading the manuals and posting questions in the forum.

 

You may be pleasantly surprised at how many members will help you learn how to fly the PMDG 747 but you must do your homework.

 

Good luck.