Old 02-04-2008, 06:03 AM
  #17  
SkyHigh
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Joined APC: May 2005
Position: Corporate Pilot
Posts: 7,119
Default Keep in mind

We have seen the results of the stock market bubble, the real estate meltdown and now regional airlines have been overheating during the last 6 years or so.

Starting a new airline career past forty is extremely risky at best. Given the shaky economy and cyclical nature of aviation is is unlikely that the latest hiring boom will continue much longer. Most everyone who was hired over the last two years could end up on the street overnight if the market changes.

It is difficult for anyone to make it past a regional and if they have a family in tow as a new career entrant it is almost negligent and unfair to them. Most spouses would want to offer their support but they really don't know what they are getting into.

My suggestion would be to only consider a career change to aviation past thirty if:

-- Financially independent or have a retirement already.

-- Not married, and no children

-- I would go to an accelerated school.

-- Fully understand that the job requires you to be gone more than half the year. you will miss every weekend, holiday and family function for the next 5 to 10 years or so.

Pilots sleep and live mostly in cold hotel rooms, crash pads and in terminals. You will earn less than the neighborhood mailman for a long time and most likely will be laid off at some point.

Pilot skills are nearly worthless to the outside world. If you loose your job or medical you are investing into a career that has no residual or transitional value. A good idea is to always have a soilid plan "B".

SkyHigh
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