Originally Posted by
AtlCSIP
I started flying at 34, actually 3 weeks before I turned 35. I'm 42, have about 2200 hours, an ATP, and I fly about 5 days a week with multiple part time endeavors. I instruct (I actually enjoy instructing), fly part 135 single pilot pax carrying ops, fly for a couple of owners, and also keep my hand in my first career (engineering). I have never owed anybody anything for any training because I always paid as I went. I have turned down regional flying opportunities because of pay and QOL.
That being said, my days flying are the best in my life, second only to the time I spend with my wife. I regularly turn down opportunities to bill up to $160 per hour as an engineer for the ability to fly an aircraft, almost any aircraft. I would rather instruct in a 152 for $20 per hour than design massive mixed use developments for tens of thousands of dollars. When it comes down to it, life is about the journey, not the destination. I love to fly, and make sacrifices to be able to do that (no, I don't pft or offer to fly free when I should get paid. I do try to make the industry better
). If you love to fly too, then do it, but do it with money you have (no debt), and do it over time so you can enjoy the entire experience!
My opinion. That and a buck and a quarter will get you a cup of coffee at QuikTrip (or 7 Eleven, if you don't have QuikTrip in your area)!
This approach has it's advantages, you have a lot of flexibility to come and go, and your career progression is not at the mercy of an airline's seniority list.
Downside would be that it's a pretty busy lifestyle, but it depends on what you like. Also if you make a habit of flying different airplanes (especially different models) you have to really be on your toes about Mx and airworthiness, as well as ensuring that YOU know enough about the model in question. Otherwise the FAA and/or the laws of physics will catch up with you eventually.