I resigned my low-wage regional job to come to the ME over a year ago. My highest yearly salary at my previous employer was approx. 42K/yr as an FO. Now I make an avg 11.5K/mo (138K/yr). My living expenses are avg 3.5K/mo. That's a savings of 8K/mo. I'm on pace to upgrade to CA in a year an half, which will up my savings to 11.2K/mo. Of course, tax free
(well at least a high percentage of it
). I'm home most nights, with only two to three 2-day layovers a month. I've traveled to places such as Maldives, Seychelles, Europe, India, etc.
Being compensated exceptionally well, I must say, life is good! Only draw back...Its a money trap and its not home! I love it when you guys complain about about the industry back home, because it just makes me think twice about whether the grass will be greener back over the fence I jump over. So far, the grass is much greener on this side of the fence (i.e. Good pay, limited US taxation, lifestyle, career progression), but it does have a a few brown spots (life in the sand pit and Ramadan).
I see the legacy carriers are on a hiring trend. Delta, my #1 choice, announced they will be in hiring starting in the 4th qtr this year. I have my app in with Delta, but I'm not sure i will take it. If called, I do intend to attending the interview, just not sure what cross-road I will take if I'm offered a job. We'll have to see.