I have been in the business for 15 years. I started very young and I was fortunate enough to jump on the 737 as FO at 21. I have seen how pilots react to different changes. We are not a patient group… but who is? We want things now; Aviation for me is like a marathon. You don't spring the first few miles, you take it slow, follow a rhythm in order to be able to finish the race.



It took me 11 years to be Captain……and it was worth it! Every year! I was more mature, I was more patient and more sure about my career. And it certainly came in handy during bad weather, etc…



Life is like a boxing match. For those of us who like sports, we all have a plan until we receive the first punch!



Well, 9/11, oil barrels reaching 100+ and some lunatics ( Chavez) were the first punch for me and my avition career!! Patience… is the name of the game. I know it is hard with family and obligations. But the rebound will happen. Shortages of pilots are occurring right now. At least in the rest of World. The USA will not be left out. Why?



I was offered a job at AirTran, I am going to take it in the future, because I know a rebound of the US economy will happen. And all those factors above (9/11, fuel,economic instability) will make more future pilots stay away from our career. Well is their choice.......but they are missing the best part of the journey...( if you got to ask, you will never know)

Just keeping the positive attitude. Best to all jet320