The answer is yes. I put myself through college, took out my student loans like most.
Maybe this is where I find the problem. When I worked ONE of my "9-5" jobs, I would be gone for two weeks, sometimes three at a time. We would average 100 hours a week, 60 hrs was overtime. That 60 hours of overtime is where I made my real money. I worked hard, and was compensated fairly for it.
So last month I sat in my hotel for 211 hrs, 91 hrs I figured I was awake twiddling my thumbs. I’m not trying to be negative here, just the comparison was made between a regional pilot and a firefighter. And you got it.
I made ok money for the month, but the time away was not worth it.
BTW, I have worked Two part time jobs since becoming a "professional" pilot.
Look my wife and I gave it one more year. It has been taking a toll on our relationship, and to me our relationship is more important than flying a plane.
I think some of the new guys should be aware of what they are getting themselves into. For me its just not my cup of tea. Others love this lifestyle, and that is great for them.
To whoever wondered why I care about the industry, if I am working on a way out.
Its kind of like selling a car you have put a lot of time and money into, you know you are going to part with it, but its still your baby. And what else is there to do when I sit in my hotel room for 211 hours a month. I work on my new business and read fourms........
