I remember being a little kid and the first time I saw a NorthWest 727, it was on the south maintenance ramp in MSP. With it's beautiful red tail, the giant N with a the compass pointing north; I knew I wanted to fly airplanes. About 20-25 some odd years later after getting my training, joining the industry and seeing what life has to offer for a pilot I have a bad taste in my mouth. I won't say it was all bad, I met allot of great people, experienced things few have and seen sights few get to see. But at the end of the day something feels empty almost as if the lifestyle is one that is unsustainable. Aviation has caused great strain on my life, both personally and financially.
I know now that of which I loved as a child has long since been dead, even back in 1990 things had already changed and with 2000s things really changed, but still I can't help but feel: do I really want out? So I ask all of my fellow pilots who are in the game and those of you who pushed back from the table, how do you make the decision? Worst yet how do you live with it? I am really thinking it may be time to hang it up.