Originally Posted by
Operation Dumbo
Hello everyone,
So was wondering if I can get some info and advice about returning back to the United States.. Was living in the United States previously back in the early 2000 job prospects as a airline pilot was extremely low and when I graduated and finished flying school I was practically broke....opted to go overseas and was blessed with a good start flew the B737-CL as a start and then jumped to a Major international airline in the M.E flying the B777/787. I have more than 5000 jet time and I also have my FAA unrestricted ATPL with the B777 rating.... Hardly have any PIC time... how is it back there and what are my prospects and recommendations??
As someone who has made the jump I would think long and hard about exactly why you want to leave before making the move. Stateside you will have a union, more days off, a ridiculously easy training environment and a life outside of aviation. You are going to take a big hit on the amount of money that hits your bank account each month and I’m guessing you will be bored out of your mind (could be a welcome thing) for the first few years.
It’s going to be a challenge in many ways going from the left seat of a 777 to reserve in the right seat of a 737/320. Just from a monetary standpoint you are probably minus at least 9k per month after taxes for the next 7 years minimum. It’s a huge financial hit on the front end of your career. Then the monotony of domestic ops, hotels, FAs, commuting, etc.
Over the long term you will probably break even or be ahead. You will have a lot more time off and control of your life. You get to have a life outside of aviation again. But you will definitely miss a lot of things about your current job. Get used to the idea of economy or jumpseat for the rest of your career. Enjoy every moment of your current job and lifestyle while you can. My $.02.