Originally Posted by GauleyPilot
Skyhigh:
While I agree with a lot of what you say that disputes the high and unrealistic expectations that may be the downfall of many who can not see beyond the glossy magazine, I take exception to you saying that flying is not a real profession anymore.
Many people do thier skilled job because they like them, and are willing to put up with a lot of garbage they don't like. Whether they be a welder, plumber, etc.
I am not an airline pilot, and will not speak about the airline life like I know about it.
However, flying airplanes pays for my house, the food in my referigerator, and the funding to enjoy my life while meeting my obligations.
I find satisfaction in what I do, and am insulted by someone putting down how I make my living. I am sure there are airline pilots here who agree with that satement.
I have wanted to walk away before, but I will stay until I have no choice. That is my decision.
By the way--you will never see me looking at people roofing a building on a hot day and hear me say how stupid they are. I have respect for them.
Roofers, plumbers, police and firefighters have real jobs. They might have paid for some of their initial training but not a one of them would do it for free. Aviation isn't a real job anymore since the price of entry far out strips any financial benefits the career could offer. Pilots are lining up to do it more for the experience than for the real benefits it offers.
Today flying is more of a working hobby. No rational person with real income needs would consider it as a profession. I don't know what you do for a living. I was an Alaskan Bush pilot and did pretty well for myself. At 24 I was making more than most regional airline captains flying a 207. I was paid that much since few else would do the job so far off the map. It is possible to find pockets in aviation that pay better but most of the time there is a sacrifice associated with it.
The next time you run into a UPS delivery person ask them if they would still do the job if it required 4 years of college and 60K in additional training expenses while earning half of their current wage.
SKyHigh