got 11yrs in the army right now (E6) (infantry). Got about a year left till i can leave and go do somthing else on the civilian side of the house (would like to fly). Or do I stay for the full 20 then proceed onto a career in aviation.
About 10hrs away from PPL
Thanks
As a non rated aviator in the service, I can say without a doubt - get your 20 first! Being in for 11 yrs you have no idea how difficult and more expensive it is in the early stages of the aviation game (health care, etc). No offense, I was the same way.
Can you go flying Warrant? My point is that being poor is no fun - let's say 150K for flight training (cost plus lost retirement, health care, and wages earned), to then build time as an instructor earning very little (still think lost wages, retirement, and health care). Then to go to a regional, an environment where you will work extremely hard, but you will not even begin to get ahead or even close to the salary you have now (with benefits).
Regional Captain - salary is livable, but 401K, health, care, and other out of pocket expenses are still keeping you from catching up financially. Think - most regional benefit packages are poor (especially compared to what you have now).
My point - think about the costs including the sum of lost wages, pension, and other benefits you will lose once you get out. Plus all the other misc (as in a lot) out of pocket expenses you will have to incur! Plus the ratings and degree costs... The cost of a life long pension/medical lost... Note: an awesome and very valuable security blanket!
Think hard as this industry is difficult and risky. Lost medical after putting yourself 150K in debt... it happens. Too many failed check-rides.... DUI.... Something else on your record... Speeding tickets....
Degree? As of now, you will not make it to the big show without it! Again -stay in and use your TA!
Get your twenty, all your ratings, and degree while your still in - in 9 yrs things will still be moving and you will have an awesome security blanket, savings, and a nice house to live in at base (think - most bases are in higher cost of living areas).
Again, go Warrant! If you can't, maybe save large blocks of leave to get your ratings (one at a time) at an accelerated school? Also, get that degree while your in - doesn't matter as long as it is a Bach!
PS - if you do decide to jump go Guard or Reserve for sure!!! I rec Air Guard! Lots of ex Army, better QOL, and you will get to know a lot of airline pilots. PM me if you want to chat further.
Good luck!