Originally Posted by FredDriver

All -- just wanted to pass on my recent foray to the "other side". I'm not saying my experience is right or wrong, just thought it would be useful to some or all out there.

I'm a MAJ w/about 2800TT (all heavies), IP is 2 MWS's, etc. Good OPRs, checked all my boxes, etc.

Last fall I thought I was smart and put the paperwork in...I had thoughts of "killing it" in the airlines and living happily ever after.

So.........after sitting for months on 10 applications and getting one interview (with Delta that was cancelled 3 days beforehand due to high fuel costs and a stagnant economy), I had a previous opportunity resurface on the AD side and I am now pulling the paperwork. A mere 30 days before my last day was going to be.

I actually have a great deal that came back to me. USAFA is going to pay my way for grad school and I'll return to the Zoo for a 4 year teaching gig. I'll be on the bonus, etc. I'm ok with not being on the road and flying after 10 years of doing it. I'll return to the operational world with great credentials and ready to wrap up the 20 year gig.

My point: Consider your options VERY carefully. Looking down the barrel of a loaded gun (the airlines in their current state) was not/is not fun. Yes, the AF is a pain some days. But the stability (for me) was much more enjoyably at the end of the day. Most of you know this, but the airlines have REALLY turned into a dicey proposal. Hiring has virtually stopped and the pool of qualified pilots looking for work has grown substantially with some airlines going belly up. And it looks like it will just get worse.

I'm happy with my decision at this point and look forward to immersing myself in academia for a few years. I hope everyone out there gets whatever they want. If you don't, you make decisions and move on.

Biggest problem I have not is a house I am severely upside down on. And I don't plan to rent. I want this out of my life...any ideas/suggestions from anyone? Short sell or walk away I guess.