It's a big step, that's for sure. I had a student of mine buy a Cherokee Six 300 and we got him his private license in it. His insurance required him to get, I believe, at least 20 hrs of dual instruction before he was covered to solo. Of course, this was back in about 1987. From what I remember, he had a few hours in a C172 before getting the Cherokee, but he progressed at about the same pace as my other students who were flying C152/172's. I'd check carefully with your insurance carrier before making a decision. That and have the airplane thoroughly checked out by a good A&P.
The airline lifestyle is tough if you have a family. I commuted to Denver (by choice) for several years and it is tough. I was on a 5 on 3 off reserve schedule for a long time after 9/11 and was usually gone on average 21 days per month. I called home one night to check on everyone and my oldest son answered the phone and I didn't recognize his voice because it was beginning to change. That's when I told myself that enough was enough. I resigned a month later and have a great corporate job where I'm gone maybe a couple nights per month. I wouldn't go back to the airlines for anything. I do miss the guys and gals that I worked with and the nice equipment we flew, but that's all.
As far as troubles being caused by electronic transmitting device, I'm not aware of one known, confirmed case. And several of the major airlines are testing out the feasibility of using the iPads in the cockpits. Go figure.
