I left LE about 2 1/2 years ago (after 13) to chase the dream.... I was even a Sgt. about to test for Lt. So I know what you are going through. However, we never had an air unit. We had 400 cops, but no air unit. Anyway, I pulled the plug and dove in with both feet.

I can tell you that I love what I do (flight instruct full time aerobatics, tailwheel, etc...) but it is hard financially. I went from 80 to 17K my first year. Now after over two years of teaching, I will be up to 40, but little in terms of benies and such.

I love aviation and all things aviation, but it is not without sacrifice. It was harder then I would have imagined leaving cop life. Like going through a divorce (did that at the same time). Right now I would hang onto the LE gig for the time being and just keep flying as you can and put yourself into position for the future (as has been said).

Customs would be a decent gig, but it requires another academy.... one is enough..... and you would have to move to a location where they need you. They are requiring 1500 TT. And being a CFI helps...

Anyway, good luck... Every LE air unit is politics. Cop first, pilot second... And whom you know, not what.... About as tough as Tac. Hang in there bro it will happen.