Originally Posted by
Joe Sheffield
I realize it is just a job. However, the reality of my plight is that I must make a choice that not only will affect me, but my precious wife. My family IS the important issue here, hence my intensive research into aviation as a career. I want to be sure I don't end up like others. I don't have the luxury of knowing the industry inside and out, so here I am, looking for answers to help with my decision. So, no, its not just a job; it is a decision that will affect my loved ones. And that is why I am taking this so seriously.....Nice picture of the C-17 though...
remember airline pilots have a higher divorce rate that average (or so it is said...reference AIDS-aviation induced divorce syndrome)...ok, now to spin this positively....let's see...It's a great challenge for those who like challenges! Seriously, my wife is currently in nursing school and I have been at a regional over a year and a half now. I'm able to get decent sched's and we have committed to working our schedules so our family is first. You can do it right as a family man as long as you are willing to make committments and sacrifices to safeguard your family. Some of ours are: No commuting to work for me longer than a 6 month period (if I can't hold the home base right away I will commute no longer than 6 months.) If it will be longer, then we move or I quit and find another job in aviation. We work family schedules around what I can hold (b-day parties etc...) When I'm home...I'm home (no golfing, bowling, poker, guys night out etc. Just the kids and wife-which I prefer anyway. Not a sacrifice if you marry the right person.) Get a good cell phone plan. Plan to live your life at the regional Capt.'s pay and strive to get to a major later. DO NOT expect to be making 100k+ within 3-5yrs. If it happens, great! But, those it happens to are the minority. Just don't set yourself up for dissappointment. It is a great job. I love flying. There will be hard times, but in my opinion it is the best profession out there.