Originally Posted by
SkyHigh
I believe that no matter what aviation will cost you something. Some pay in wasted years of their lives while others pay in cash and up front. When I was in a similar position during he recession of the early 1990's I waited it out and built my flight experience one hour at a time. Others I knew bought their way in through various means. The most traditional way is buying a job.
Looking back at the time I stood by my morals and even if I had the money I would not have bought myself a job. However, the strategy did not serve me well. Those who lied about their experience or who bought a job were able to jump years ahead of me.
In the long run it is cheaper to pay in cash then in years of your life. In any case at least you need to be able to afford to wait it out. Those who are able to climb to the top usually do not let anything stand in their way.
I made my choice and my morals and values are intact but they cost me. Rules, morals and fairness are all things to be negotiated away if you want to increase your odds in aviation.
Skyhigh
I went in the military, 10 years active duty, when got out, most everyone in midst of furloughing. Got a job fly Emb-120'S at COEX. Junior F/O for 2.5 years. Didn't pay for training (PFT) and got offered jobs at DHL and UPS. Went UPS. Had lots of other options available when the market came back. Your right, didn't let anything stand in my way. Married 20 years, kids,etc. Didn't compromise my morals, ethics.
The OP is smart, getting experience now for when the market does reopen, will be ready.