Southwest just lowered their hiring minimums from 1300 PIC to 1000 PIC. The two times I spoke with their HRO folks, they have stated the industry is facing a pilot shortage due to the baby boomers having to retire and not having enough qualified pilots to replace them.

I don't believe you are working for 'nothing' at Southwest. I know the industry has changed since 9-11 but working at FedEx, UPS, Southwest, etc. is not working for peanuts....no pun intended.

Regardless, I think what you have said is partially correct. I am sure there are plenty of pilots like yourself that have opted out of the industry due to numerous reasons, one of which is poor wages/benefits at alot of the airlines.

However, I do believe it is going to be a pilots world in the future and the pay and benefits are going to have to improve inorder to attract them.....just like anything else when there is a supply that can't meet the demand.

It is my hope you are finding 'yours' and living your dreams soon, if not already. Best wishes to you and your family.