D5 Pilot-

Have you posted this question in any of the other sub forums? I would post this question in the fractional forum for sure. They will have great insight into that aspect of aviation. I flew for a regional airline when they were still called commuter airlines. It sucked, bad. My opinion, based on your age and the job you currently have, is to avoid the regional airlines at all cost. I was in my early 20's at the time so low wages, disrespect, terrible schedules and daily abuse weren't a big deal. I couldn't do it again now in my forties. The stories you hear about the regionals are not exaggerations. You don't need to go to prison to see first hand that it sucks when everyone can tell you it does.

Having said that I believe you are in a good position to pursue a corporate flying job whether it be for a fractional or otherwise. Since you aren't on the street you can be more selective about where you go. Getting hired at a corporate outfit is as much networking as it is about raw flight time. I understand the trepidation of leaving a pension but there's opportunity cost with staying at a low paying flying job (I mean no disrespect at all) when you could possibly double your salary, or more, in another sector of aviation while also growing professionally. 46 years old is not old. My friend's dad flew for NetJets until he was 75 (I know, I know).

I would continue to solicit opinions on this forum from all walks of aviation. I would also rule out the regional airlines as a viable option and focus elsewhere. And for your data points I am a major airline captain. Take into account everyone's point of view when distilling the info.

Just my $0.02!