Originally Posted by
marxgant
I found this thread while trying to research Tropic Ocean Airways and I'm glad I did! I'm in a very similar position to you and a few others on this thread, being LEO and having about ~420 TT (pun not intended, I actually have 419.8 as of this writing). I began flying back in high school, eventually got my IFR, CPL, and began the CFI courses but wasn't successful there since I was in college at the same time. I try to keep within my biannual flight review, but haven't flown frequently since 2016. I also got the notion to get out of law enforcement and back into aviation, but it seems I may be behind the curve since hiring slowed down for the airlines. I plan on getting current again soon, and getting a CSES seems like a good way to do it - along with a multi add-on.
Have you had any updates since last year? Did Tropic Ocean Airways work out for you? I'd like to talk more on PM or phone if you'd like, since I am also trying to figure out how to take the pay cut and move into a low time flying job.
I say keep going but don’t leave the pension career until the timing is right and you are at hireable minimums. This all depends on your age.
I was FD for 12 years. Started flying at age 32 in 2017. Was ready to go then Covid hit. I stayed at FD through that. Made a quick stop in regionals and made it to legacy now. I have 26 years left assuming 65 age holds steady and I keep my medical. Flying is way less stressful than paramedicizing the clients that like to use the 911 system. It pays better with a better schedule than I had at FD as well. I even get part of my pension at age 55.
It was the right switch at the right time for me. Could be a lost decade coming up. Could be a short dip before another giant hiring wave and economic boom. No one knows, just take as much info as you can, make a decision. Have a backup plan