Hindsight,
Thanks for your input as well. I agree that GS-13 is a pretty good salary. A couple of things though:
Aircraft ownership - been there, done that. If it flies or floats, it's cheaper to rent. A/C ownership costs, even for a small single engine fixed gear aircraft are cost prohibitive unless one has a business to write it off.
My spouse is permanently disabled from a medical condition that surfaced a few years ago. Her ability to work is very limited. She was formerly a SF3 CA for a large regional airline.
As Forrest Gump says about life.. "you never know what you're gonna get"
Plan for the worst but hope for the best!
I am fairly certain that taxes will increase and fed govt benefits will be cut (such as FERS) in the future due to overwhelming govt costs. Look at what's happening with Social Security! It's gonna be wiped out in approximately 2018. Any airline pilot that has recently lost a pension will probably agree with me when I say:
You can only count on your own financial planning for adequate retirement savings!
My last piece of advice (unless you want to work until you're dead):
Pay yourself first: Max out your 401K/TSP and Roth IRA.
I hope to do more fun flying in about 22 years
