Go back to flying, I did, I don't regret it at all. I've done both, I went to ATC for the same reasons you stated but it wasn't for me and you only live once. ATC is a great career for some but not for me, I got into aviation to fly. Just like you, I hated the routine, dark rooms, same people, same city, training, you sound like you've made up your mind. For some the routine is great, for me it was a slow death, retirement benefits and stability are great things but the job wasn't enough for me.
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