Originally Posted by
mooseflyer
OTOH, were I actually working a full line at my LCC and not on mil leave, I'd make around 60k as a 3rd year FO flying close to 1000 hours. Due to my (admittely self imposed) commute, I'd have 1 or possibly 2 days at home per week and spend 20+ hours per week commuting in coach in addition to my line flying. Yes, I could move, but why move for a job you hope not to keep? (I'm still saying 3 years later)
After running the numbers, and considering the active duty retirement (the biggie), tax benefits, health care, etc, I WAS making the equivilant of mid - high level captain pay while on active duty. And that's not considering the ACIP I passed up. Getting out turned out to be a pretty bad financial decision for me, at least so far. There's still hope for UPS/FDX though I suppose.....
My point? For every story like Lil J's, there's a counter story. Yes, active duty sucks, but I separated for improved quality of life and higher earning potential - I got neither.
Moose,
So would you bag your LCC gig and go back on active duty if you had the opportunity?
Just curious how many dudes out there are in a similar situation...not satisfied with how things are on the outside and would jump at the opportunity to get back in and finish out 20 years? Wonder is AFPC would put some kind of code on your AFSC to ensure you get hosed at every opportunity.