I work at, and am part owner in a mechanical contracting firm, typically doing commercial applications but some residential.Started as an apprentice and eventually had an opportunity to buy into the company.

I am able to make both schedules work. I am still in the field doing the work, but recently taken on more of a back office type of role doing administrative stuff. It’s not as fun as the hands on work, but it makes me a little more appreciative of the flying I get to do.

For most pilots, having something that doesn’t take all your time and energy is what I would advise. Something online maybe, or rentals (obvious answer), or even something that you own part of and make have a good arrangement with someone who watches it when you’re away.

Also, you hear pilots talk about how cyclical the airlines are. The truth is, there is no such thing as absolute job security in our world. Doesn’t matter what industry you’re in or who you work for. Unless you’re a millionaire several times over, it’s a risk for anyone.

That said, if you live reasonably beneath your means and invest some each month, you’ll likely be more than fine as an airline pilot. Probably be further ahead than most people in fact.

I drive Lyft/Uber.

Onlyfans. Easy to do on the road so it doesn’t even really impinge on my off days.

Lots of other benefits involved in opening a business. Not only something to do on off days and make a few bucks, it opens the door for tax write offs, and he can spool it up and sell it for 3x+ what he paid for it in a few years if he wants

Pretty basic (predictable lol) real estate guy with a handful of units. Been great for me, but certainly not for everyone. I used to swing a hammer, I don't swing a hammer anymore...don't swing a hammer! Build a team of friends in the fields you'll need, the time you keep is well worth the money you'll pay them. Having side income that pays for my house plus some bills (not to mention the units themselves) has been great for the months I decide I'd rather have time off vs work. Dropping half my schedule isn't even much of a thought thanks to my side income. The other big reason I like the side hustle is that I have a built in springboard of a new career should I lose my medical.

Buddy of mine used to always toss side business ideas around. Well, actually, he threw me ideas and I shot them down usually.

But the conclusion I usually came to was that nothing would pay as much as just picking up an extra airline trip. For me, I could do all the ground work, learn a new skill, or figure out how to start and run a business, take risk, or just grab a trip in open time and make the money that way. I had a hard time finding something that seemed to have a cost/benefit analysis beat just flying 1 more trip.

Obviously owning a thriving business can have tax benefits and possibly be sold for a big profit later on, but there's real risk in starting a business. The statistics on starting a business are not confidence inspiring.

One of our pilots owns a brothel in Brazil. Can't get better than that.

Trade futures during days off and sometimes in between flights or on layovers. After doing it for a few years able generates some nice walking around money as long as you manage risk well.

Crew rates I hope?

I own a few rental units. Money is decent, and would support my family if my airline goes T.U.