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Old 10-06-2015, 01:45 PM
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ML3415
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Joined APC: Oct 2015
Posts: 5
Default Training Debt Vs. Seniority

I've been on this site for a bit but this is my first post - I apologize in advance for any dumb questions/ questions that are out there on this forum.

I am in my mid 20's and have decided to make a career change. I've always been interested in aviation, but have always took the safer route at a 9 - 5. I have a 4 yr. degree with a decent paying job. My plan is to complete my PPL while working first, and then decide if going all in (quitting my job) and committing to this career is right for me (lets assume it is).

My father flew for close to 30 years at a legacy carrier, so I am very familiar with the lifestyle and with the stepping stones I will need as I progress through my ratings and build time required for the Majors. My question is not about should I do this, or how do it......It is WHEN.

Specifically I am trying to decide when to quit my 9-5 and go all in. I have saved up a good chunk of money, but certainly not enough to pay off ALL my training, as well as factoring in my living costs. I am lucky enough to be able to get a loan from family, with the luxury of paying it back over time at no interest. However, I know that the salary made as a CFI (or other low time pilot job) and as a Regional FO will be tough to support myself while paying off training at the same time... even if I have flexibility paying family back. Knowing that I will be pulling in a measly salary makes me want to save up a bit at my 9-5 a while longer before starting my training in order to avoid too much debt.

On the other side of the fence I know that right now is the time to get into the regional's for a number of reasons. I understand that in commercial aviation seniority is everything. I tend to think that by getting in ASAP even with a bit of debt - my long term earning potential and opportunity for quicker upgrade times will outweigh any debt I might incur during my initial training. I'm itching to get started now - but want to think things through to go about it in the best way possible to make this a long term career

Does anyone have any advice on what is more important:
1. Get though training with as little debt as possible, even if that means missing out on getting into a Regional then Major during upcoming retirements due to the 65 yr. rule
2. Start training now in order to start at a Regional ASAP with small to moderate debt towards family, knowing that my better seniority will help me in the long run.
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