Originally Posted by
de727ups
"A lot of people, like myself, are thinking about stepping away from aviation."
There is nothing wrong with stepping away for a while. The nice thing about flying is you don't lose the hours, ratings, and experience you have to this point. Depending on your personal money situation and how fast you're building time, you might want to hang on until you get 1200 total. That's the IFR 135 min. That, and a little multi time, might help you get in the door at a 135 freight company at some point. 1500 total and you can go out and get your ATP.
I also agree with Ewfflyer in that those that plug away are most likely to be in the right place at the right time to get a shot at the next rung up the ladder. When you take yourself out of the game, you postpone any upward movement. That puts those that keep plugging away at an advantage, and they most certainly won't mind one less guy in their way.
For some, plugging away will be best, for others, getting out is a good option. It totally depends on your personal situation and goals. What are your options?
Due to current financial status chances are I am going to have to go back to working for the government as a mechanic. I've been told by a hiring offical that if nothing changes I have a job at McGuire AFB, NJ making $31/HR with 40hrs/wk guarentee. It's not what I really want to do long term but it will be good while my wife is in medical school. At the same time I am applying for commission through the Air Force for UPT.