Great article by Barry. It's true, it can be a great career, if you are lucky, if know the right people, if you time it just right, and if stay in good health. Lots of 'ifs' in there. The price you pay, and just being able to survive that long while trying to keep your relationships or families intact, finances on course, and somehow through all the ups and downs still save enough to retire may prove to much for some. Really - one of the biggest hang-ups I have is the lack of lateral movement options. Having to start all over at the bottom in case of job change due to moving on, furlough, bankruptcy etc, is just too painful a thought for me right now. And chances are I'll face it sometime soon. There are too many variables we cannot control in regards to our own success. So much random chance is involved. I cannot imagine what those United pilots to be furloughed must be going through right now, going back so far in seniority. Then I see the whole US Air East vs. West mess and it reinforces what a backwards, brutal industry it can be.

Airduds - thanks for the info. Wish they had a plant out in these parts.

In other news - my sister-in-law just graduated high school last month - and is now making more money than me, a third year regional FO nearly twice her age. "If I knew then what I know now."