Originally Posted by
kls81
Hello,
I just got done reading through all 7 pages of this thread. I hate to resurrect an old thread but I was thinking about some things recently.
I'm currently employed at state LE aviation unit as a fixed-wing pilot/TFO. While the job is stable, offers good retirement/pension, pretty much all the things a government job offer. I can't help but think about making the jump to 121 flying. I would have to go to a regional to start but with the quick upgrades and movement, the potentional for making a lot more money is likely.
I'm 34 and only have 5 years in so I could go in about 15 and get a pension, etc. so I would be 49 years old.
My question is with the current state of the industry, would the potential of making a lot more money at a major, LCC outweigh that of a government pension?
Naturally you are away from home more at an airline, but they seem to have more days off than an LE.
I know everyone's case is different, but I was just curious of everyone's opinion.
Thanks
Hello kls81,
I am 32 and was 121 for a couple years, went into law enforcement (non aviation side) for 4 years and then back to 121. I don't regret my decision to go back to 121 at all, although there are days I do miss being a cop......until I think about dealing with the family fight or bs fraud call and the associated paperwork along with the political bs that is city government.
You could potentially do the 15 and get your retirement and then go 121 and be better off since you would have the retirement income, however as you already know, this and the coming 5-10 years is as good as anytime to get in while you can. While the state retirement is a nice thing to have, depending on what state your in it may not be there in 15 years but I digress, you could make more overal income and retirement going 121 and make it to a LCC or major.
What are your times and quals like by the way?
In the end it's all about being happy and making the decision that is best for you.
PM me if you want some more insight and I will give you my number and we can chat some more about it.