Here is a simple comparison. Assuming the pilot at 18 starts at a state university professional pilot program and the mailman also gets hired right out of high school.

By year four the pilot has graduated with a four year degree and now holds a commercial and CFI. During that time the mailman has been earning a living (estimated: 48K per year when you add in all the benefits) while the pilot has been spending a fortune on tuition, books, living expenses and flight training (-150K).

By year four the mailman is up +192K over four years while the pilot is in the hole -150K in college and flight training costs. At this point the mailman leads by $342,000.

Over the next five years the pilot works low wage jobs trying to get to day one at Horizon Air while the mailman expands his lead. The pilot is in a deep hole that most likely they will not be able to climb out of until they are in their late 50's.

Now you guys can start picking it apart.

Skyhigh