smstoller

Hello everyone,
Currently am flying in the lower 48, flying PC12's and C208s for a part 135Airline, as a Captain. However, I could transfer back to Alaska from where I started with the company, and fly C208s and C207s as a captain.
I have many friends up in AK, and very few in the lower 48.
Pay is about the same, since it’s with in the same company.
My girlfriend is in AK, and the long distance relationship is taking its toll.
I will fly about 65ish a month in AK (VFR) and I fly about 85ish hrs. (VFR/IFR) a month in the lower 48.

I'm not sure which path I would like to take. I don't know what I want to do nor do I know what I should do? Career or being happy.

Career will move faster I think if I stay in the lower 48.
Career will still move forward just a little slower, if I go to AK.

Pay is about the same; in AK there is a safety bonus. Benefits are the same (same company)

I am just not sure where I should go… any Advise please.

Thanks

rickair7777

I think most of us would prefer AK flying our entire careers if it weren't for the drawbacks...

Isolation from friends/family
Woman won't go, and no women once you get there
Typically more hazardous in flying AK

Sounds like for you it's the opposite, so I guess it's a question of career goals and how much of a hurry you're in to achieve them.

smstoller

My problem is i think is that, I have been so open minded and done what ever job i could get is that i do not know where i want to get out of aviation.

Ogie Ogilthorpe

you'd have to be more specific on your career goals. As you know there are a lot of opportunities here in AK for single engine prop guys which you obviously fit the bill. Either option doesn't sound like you're going to get twin turbine so not sure where you're going with this. Most people would stay where they can get that coveted twin turbine PIC time and then go where the job is. My perspective personally: I'm an AK born and raised and now flying C-17's here at PAED however if AS or FeX and some day when they start hiring UPS don't call I'd move down to America for a few prime ops ie. SWA. but if you're talking Penn Air, ERA, Grant or Hageland then it's just a stepping stone and you should consider nothing else but that step and how it will work out for you and your lifestyle because neither will "boost" your career whether it's single turbine down there or up here. You've already acquired that coveted "AK" time most of these guys like so you can go when and where you choose to the above operations. I would also consider AAR in OAIX. Not sure if they're flying the U-28 but it's pretty effective in theater. Again give us more and help me help you.

propilot

The saddest day of my career was leaving my job in Alaska to go back to the lower 48... Start driving!