Smooth_Landing

I have two main interests that would possibily want to pursue as a career: becoming a professional pilot or getting into urban/city planning. I finished my bachelors degree two years ago. I have been saving up money for flight training since (have about 20K ready to go for the FBO)...I have done some training, and I like it but I am not sure if I want a career in it at this point. The notion of being a professional pilot conjures up images of a fun lifestyle, challenging and rewarding job (not neccesarily monetarily, but rewarding in other ways). However, I have read some of the posts online and realize that is a hard road. On the other hand, if I want to go into urban/city planning I have unconditional admittance to a masters program at a certain University based on my undergrad GPA and GRE scores. That also sounds like really interesting, rewarding work, but I would hate to chose that and regret not going for the flight career later in life.

I obviously can't expect anyone to solve this dilemma for me...its something I have to do for myself. That said, I was wondering...for those who are flying professionally, is it everything you dreamed of?

Ottopilot

Follow your heart. I love flying and would do nothing else. Even when things are "bad" in this industry, they are still good to me. Besides, it beats working for a living. I won't do offices or cubicles.

Smooth_Landing

Yeah that's kind of my thinking too...the payoff of being a professional pilot could be so great; if I succeed or fail I do it trying. If I take the safe road I will always wonder. I am only 27 and have a lot of time to recover from any mistakes, as well. Also, I have no family to speak of and don't have a significant other...it is worth trying I think...

rickair7777

If you are geographically flexible and don't have a significant other, that gives you a lot of leeway to get through the entry-level years.

I would suggest you get the PPL first, then do a little recreational GA before you take the big plunge...you might find that recreational flying is all you really need. My SO is an MPA in a large city, and she enjoys her job as much as I enjoy mine.

avanti

Hi Smooth Landing,

The only advice I can offer is this: I am 26, have my PPL, and have worked in TV for 4 years now (probably one of the most desired after industries in the world?) Add to that I make good money and live in a foreign country. But I always wanted to be a pilot, and that feeling does not go away. I am currently saving up in order to go back to school (back in the US) to finally follow my real dream. I believe one has to follow their heart. Life only happens ONCE!!