As far as earning estimates, check the Airline Profile on the main page or check with any of the leasing agencies (GAP Aviation is a good one).

Just my opinion, but a couple of things to keep in mind about heading overseas. First, I was 25 years at DAL and took the early retirment in 2005. Remember, you have no union protection at most overseas carriers that are hiring and Terms and Conditions can and will be changed without much (if any) input from the pilot group. I find the work enviornment here at EK very much like DAL and enjoy the folks I work with.

Ah, but the life of an expat is where the real challenge comes in. Are you single, married, married with kids, married and spouse remains in the US? Every one of the above situations will warrant a different answer as far as living the life of an expat. And that is were the real rub comes in. How well will you fit in with your "new" country and city? Is the airline more westernized or Asianized? There is a world of difference.

Would I do it again? Probably; given the state of the airline industry in the US. But many airlines will want proof that you gave up your seniority number and resigned from you legacy. There are ways around it, but.....

 

1. Which airline did you go to?

Spicejet, In India

2. Better, worse, or what you expected?

Better.

3. Would you do it again?

Yup.

4. Would you ever go back to a Legacy? (assuming you did this on furlough)

I retired early. Wouldn't go back even if I could.

I retired early from USAir(ways), essentially giving up nothing but the salary and a lot of aggravation. The PBGC pension was fixed (at my young age) and the travel benefits are nearly worthless. I make more money over here with much less stress. Yes, I miss being home but the job is flexible enough that I can visit whenever I want to. Thank God I'm outta there! Forever!



Look, I had no union protection even when I was in a union. There's little downside over here on that account. If conditions deteriorate, hit the trail (again). There's lots of opportunity.