Originally Posted by
N5139
I'm happy for you. Sounds like you've established a good lifestyle. However, I know plenty of regional captains in their 30s making upwards of $90,000 a year who still love their job. I left 121 for a Government flying job, but really can't look back and see the misery you mentioned. Sure, there's lots of BS, but was it awful? Not any worse than any other job out there.
I think problems arise when people chase a dream and not reality.
Boy did you hit the nail right on the head. If I had known what I know now back when I was 19 I probably would have gotten just a PPL and instrument rating and left it at that. Would have about $25,000 more dollars in the bank if I knew then what I know now. I still say that back in the 80's it was an acceptable risk to persue, but now those times are over. I did notice you left 121 for a government job, smart move.