My best friend in college actually quit a regional airline to become a UPS driver. Made a lot more money in the short run. Now he can't drive anymore because of back injuries.

I think Skyhigh frequently fails to mention the downsides of these other jobs.

Construction for example: If there's one business that makes the airlines look stable, it's the construction business. Who cares how much you make if you're out of work at every housing downturn? My construction friends are struggling for work right now.

Maybe contracting would be cool??? Oh yeah, one of my best buds is a 777 FO AND a contractor.