Leaving Aviation for HVAC/Plumbing or Similar
 

I’m an airline pilot who is beginning to realize that this job isn’t for me. I like flying airplanes, but all the BS with management, COVID, and having to CYA for nearly every little thing has gotten me sick of the job.

I’m also not that good at the job either and constantly feel I’m inferior as a professional pilot. I’m considering leaving for the career to focus on the trades full time. Plumbing, HVAC, etc. Does any one have good advice on making this switch? Ideally, I’ll be in a position to have my own company and fly for fun. Thanks.

Sorry guys, I’m an idiot. Maybe this should have been in the “Leaving the Career” thread.

You would prefer working in hot, dusty attics/crawl spaces and freezing cold outdoors rather than a nice, climate controlled, moving office with an awesome view? Nothing wrong with the trade industry, but are you really serious? Suggest “Shadowing” a trade person for one full day before you decide to hang up your wings. Maybe consider becoming an electrician, maybe...

Do it. Troll or not; I think everyone has had enough of your “I’m an inferior pilot blue collar wannabe” story. Pull the plug on the profession and APC.

That kind of work is a young person’s game. I spent a few years wrenching on cars and also in construction. It was awesome, because it motivated the crap out of me to go to college, get a good degree, and not have to do that kind of work for the rest of my life.

Everyone I know that is older than 40 doing that stuff, is either trying to get out or is the owner of the company and has young guys tearing up their bodies for them.

Anyone that would voluntarily leave something a sweet as a RJ CA or higher for that kind of work is in for a MAJOR reality check.

The OP is an idiot. but "an awesome view" doesnt pay the bills you actually consider this a plus? either it pays the bills or it doesnt dude

My one neighbor is a plumber, the other has a scaffolding operation. Both live very comfortably from what I can tell. An electrician probably does the least amount of back-breaking work, so that’s also something I’m considering.

I would like to have my own company and be able to fly for fun. Maybe there is a way I can still fly at the airlines while also doing this work at the same time? I still think I’m lousy as an airline pilot.

Then go do it dude! One thing about the US, making career changes is relatively easy if you’re willing to put in the work. I’ve done it, as have many others here. Ultimately only you can make the decision. Better to have tried than regret not taking the chance if you’re miserable.

Thanks, wrx. I’m thinking this is the way to go. It’s been fun on APC, but time for something new. Take care all.

Each to their own! I remember a furlough very early in my flying career where I was working on a crew pouring pool decks in Tampa. It was right near the airport and I cursed seeing jets overhead while I sweated and got concrete in my boots out in the sun. I was so damn happy that job was short lived and I could get back to a flying gig! Manual labor was not my friend.

I have flown with some folks that were genuinely miserable about check rides and weather. Some eventually got it, some left flying. Good luck in the trades, there can be some good cash there but it will get old quick dealing with job site drama and cheating contractors. Be sure to count your fingers and toes before and after every shift!