It's a job. Depending on which part of the industry you're in, there may be an associated lifestyle which is non-traditional and non-avoidable.

It's a career. But there are some risk factors beyond your control which a typical white-collar professional isn't subject to, ie medical issues, and the seniority system. If you're high seniority and your airline gets merged, bought, bankrupt, stagnates, or even your base relocated you can't easily make a lateral move to escape the consequences, you either have to grin and bear it or start over at the bottom of another list. Most other 40-50 something professionals can get another job in the same (often better) pay range if needed or desired.