I agree you should have backup savings. You should have a plan B job, if and when you cannot fly. Black swans and other things (like health problems) can and will happen. (Carry disability insurance, in case you cannot do any work. If you have a family, carry life insurance.) You will suffer furloughs. It is almost a given. My point is do not count on it happening every 10 years. It could happen sooner. It could happen later. Just don’t plan for it every 10 years.