The retirements don't lie.

If your goal is to become a major airline pilot in the next 10 years, you have a much better chance of obtaining that goal than in the previous 10 years. Yes, the industry may shrink the number of pilots, but with thousands upon thousands DEFINITELY leaving the profession in the next few decades, there is a lot of opportunity for new hires.

If this job is what you want to do, there has not been a better outlook for a long time. Barring some major catastrophic economic event, it should continue for some time. We are still sitting on the cusp. Look at how the hiring is ramping up for the big 3 as well as all the other players in the industry. Once the pool of highly qualified pilots is gone, you will start seeing the average joes getting a chance. Call me an optimist...that's fine.