Originally Posted by
hrmham
Despite the obvious hiring going on at the present, more senior pilots constantly speak in terms of *when* the next downturn will arrive (not *if*) and how that could flush a lot of the newer pilots' careers/progression, etc. While newbies chase the magic 1500 hours hoping to hook-on to a regional and begin the climb, should they also be *actively* be setting up for a back-up career to hedge against the specter of downturns and furloughs? If so, are they're any obvious, proven go-to non-aviation-related careers?
When there is a downturn, I doubt it will be as bad as the last one for pilots. Even with a reduction in flying and possible pay cuts there are still an enormous amount of mandatory retirements to keep some movement going. It may slow things down but I don't think we'd see things get as bad as they were before. If the economy ends up in that bad of a spot I doubt a ten year old engineering or business degree with no relevant work experience is going to land you a job in that market.
I think it's wise to pick a regional you can stand being stuck at for awhile if that happens.