Originally Posted by
Turbosina
For what it's worth, while the airline industry may be incredibly cyclical, there are few careers these days in the private sector that are well-insulated from economic shocks. Aside from the military or the federal government (plus some state and local governments), I can't think of too many professions that offer any kind of job security.
The military provides only short-term security (3-6 years). Long-term security is zero, it's up or out, if you miss the next promotion, you're out. I think maybe 20% actually qualify for the 20-year retirement... the pyramid gets steeper every step of the way.
You will also need to do a career change eventually, because there are so few slots available at the highest ranks that almost everyone is out before age 50. Really only flag and general officers can get anywhere near age 60 and just retire for real.
So not the rainbows and unicorns some civilians think it is.
Federal civil service on the other hand is a pretty cush gig, other than the inherent toxicity in many sectors.