Originally Posted by Sliceback

You're on a slightly different track that has potential. You say that you'll be able to retire in six years. With steady, but not easy, effort you should have 1500 hrs and be able to go into retirement and immediately be at a regional airline. First year pay now is in the $50-60K range. That's not too bad on top of a retirement check. From that point you're looking at 5-7 yrs as a typical estimate to be a median resume candidate, except for your age, at a major airline. And 2025 will still be in the heart of the peak retirement years. So you'll ever have 20 years at a regional airline, which isn't a bad retirement gig, or perhaps 15 yrs (+/-) at a major airline. With the retirements, if you live in a junior base, you're possibly looking at 7-8 yrs as a n/b Captain.

Good luck.

Originally Posted by viper548

Heads up on the C-152. It won't carry two larger than average adults and full fuel. If you or your instructor weigh more than 170lbs you should make sure the weight and balance will work before you buy one.

Originally Posted by LongRoadAhead

Thanks for the comment much appreciated. I would honestly be happy doing 20 years at a regional as a second career. I guess my question would be is this possible? I know you hear some horror stories on here regarding the regionals. If I were to eventually become a Captain with some seniority who resided in my domicile could I have an enjoyable career spent entirely at a regional airline.

Thanks Again.

Originally Posted by swhitlow

I would continue working full time only until I get my rating. Once I get that, I would focus on flying career. My wife works so if I can make $40k we can make it work, it will be tough for a few years but I think the end far out weighs those few years of hard work. I work long hours and travel now so me being gone is nothing new.

Would you think getting ratings and then going to someone like ATP to move things along faster a wise decision? I could at least get that via student loan to help offset that cost and get hours faster via CFI. I know that’s not the best option but as I said, 3 kids, 2 dogs, mortgage lol. But we can make it work if I can make ~$40k.

Suffering for a few years I think will help us long term, family trips with free flying down the road to make memories would be great. Sucks now but long term awesome.

I just want to know I am not stupid for doing this haha.


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Originally Posted by LongRoadAhead

Thanks for the comment much appreciated. I would honestly be happy doing 20 years at a regional as a second career. I guess my question would be is this possible? I know you hear some horror stories on here regarding the regionals. If I were to eventually become a Captain with some seniority who resided in my domicile could I have an enjoyable career spent entirely at a regional airline.

Thanks Again.

Originally Posted by swhitlow

I am seriously considering a career change. My brother is a pilot for AA, we live in the same neighborhood and he loves his job. I can’t say the same thing.

I turned 41 in Nov 18. I am taking the initial flight Saturday to see if this is for me. I love flying for work, pleasure, etc. but this is a very different thing obviously.

My questions are these.
1. Am I too old to start a career?
2. If I can get my PPL, Instrument, Multi over the next 7 months. I can’t quit my job family, etc. does this make the timeline still achievable?
3. Am I kidding myself???
4. Can’t got to something like ATP, Bc I can’t quit my job. Would buying a Cessna 150 help get the hours up quicker if I can of course find one that is in good condition and not cost more than just renting one. $135/wet locally.
5. They have a smaller flight school, would it make sense to join this and still go part time until I get the hours needed to where I can make at least $60k/yr.?

Again is this a pipe dream and just dumb? Thank you for your help!


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Originally Posted by swhitlow

What would you suggest? Obviously you all know more than I do. Safety is the most important thing.


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Originally Posted by viper548

If the weight and balance doesn't work for you in a 152, I'd suggest a 172 or a piper cherokee. Don't get me wrong, the C-152 is a great airplane. I'm 6'4", 270 lbs. I could not fly it with another person in there. If you're 5'9", 170 lbs. it might be perfect for you.