Originally Posted by
SkyHigh
I started in the 1980's. My generation of pilots did not have access to the information that new pilots do now. The industry was also very different then. It puzzles me as to why someone with all the proper information would intentionally pursue this career unless they have intend to martyr their lives to aviation.
I don't believe that a rational person would blow a fortune on college and flight training expenses unless they held the belief that they were going to be flying for SWA within a few years of graduation. How else can you justify the expense? The only other explanation is that aviation is a hobby job akin to music and art and no one really expects to see their money again.
At least my generation had an excuse.
Skyhigh
I do not have a college degree and flight training cost roughly 30k through CFII. I have not always had the job I wanted or been able to live exactly where I wanted but I have earned well beyond my investment over the last fourteen years.
Why anyone spends money at places like ERAU or UND just to fly is beyond me but I know that it is not my place to tell them how to live their life or pass judgment on their decision.
I am married with two young children and they are always put before my job. I don't make money like I own a mint, but the bills are paid.
I guess what I'm really getting at here is that you decided you could not make enough money in a stable enough job market to fulfill your needs so you quit flying. I can understand that decision and respect you for making a choice to pursue what you value. What I don't understand is why you post on here like you are going to save someone. You are not. I also find the tone of your posts a little condescending and judgmental of people that still pursue or have careers in the aviation industry. Just because you did not see the value of staying does not mean that everyone else should leave too.