For what its worth.

I am a retread and came back last year. Similar stats to the original post except I was at a major from 2000-01. Flew corporate till 08 then left flying till last year. Had my own business from 08-14. (did well but truly don't care for it)

I had been watching the industry and the APC boards and thought it would be a good time to come back. Got my medical, filled out airline apps Feb 1, 14. Had a bunch of interviews lined up within a week. I started at Compass in April 2014, (my first choice - live on west coast) was there almost a year and am now in class at F9 - With their expansion it looks like a great place for me.

I had not touched an airplane for over 6 years, put my best effort into training and it went very well. No BFR, no recurrent in a Cessna. It really is just like riding a bike!

I feel pretty fortunate and think it's a good time to come back if its what you desire. You might not make it to the big 3, but you can have a good QOL at a national or LCC - or even stay at a decent regional.

I should ad that i could afford to return to a regional because of my other income. Hope this helps anyone with this big decision. It has worked out for me so far.