"For those of us who tried it during the last 3-5 years, we sort of got the short end of the stick."

I think part of the problem is the perception given to the guys who got a jet job at 500-700 hours. At 2000 hours I was making 600/mo, working 6 days a week, flying 172's in the Grand Canyon. It was never easy and working your way up takes time. It took me 10 years from solo to a 121 prop job. I can see how those who got to the shiny jet at 500 hours could have pretty high expectations and be pretty dissapointed with the current environment.

It's not an easy career but I think it's an awesome career. It's not for everybody, though, and the sooner one figures out it's not for them, and the sooner they get out, the better it will be. Also, the more that leave the better it will be for those who stay.

We are in uncertain times. Age 65. The economy is in the crapper and aviation tends to ebb and flow with the economy. I think with fuel prices so low, though, the airlines might actually make money next year. Most of the planes I jumpseat on are nearly full. I think those that decide to stick it out will have a good shot at what I'd consider a worthy job in aviation. But, it's still not for everybody...