Am I too old?
 

I am 46 years old and want nothing more than to fly for the airlines, I always have. I am at a great point for a career change, I know the money will suck for a while, but I think I can live with that. If the retirement age stays at 60 I'll still have 13 years or so, but if they change it to 65 I'll have 18 years.

I have enough time to qualify for most of the Regionals, I would just need to add a commercial, which I can do know problem. The question is am I too old. How do the airlines look at guys like me making a midlife career change?

Any advice?

There was one guy who was 55 in my class. Another 55 year old in the RJ class. Go for it.

The mandatory retirement age changed to 65 on 12/13/07.

You should go for it. I heard through the grapevine that the age 65 rule has been signed. I believe it went into effect on December 15th.

PoK
:cool:

if it's a dream of yours, then go ahead and do it! A guy in my class a year ago was in his mid 40s with a military background. He finished half way through ground school! You will definately feel the financial pinch! Where are you planning to apply?

Go for it! Don't hesitate if it is something you want to do, and if the conditions are right.

[quote=Over40;288971]I am 46 years old and want nothing more than to fly for the airlines, I always have. I am at a great point for a career change, I know the money will suck for a while, but I think I can live with that. If the retirement age stays at 60 I'll still have 13 years or so, but if they change it to 65 I'll have 18 years.


Go for it!!! You only get one trip around the merry go-around and there is one thing I never want to say when I'm older and that is "What if.........."





Lastly.....Good Luck on whatever you decide.

Thanks everyone. I live in Houston so I will apply to ExpressJet for sure, any other suggestions?

You did not mention where you are in your aviation career path. If you are at zero time, it will be a hard couple of years (unless you are independently wealthy). To get private, commercial, instrument, multi and enough hours to get on with a commuter will take a year and $50K.

If you already have 2,500 hours+, significant multi engine and turbine time, you can potentially get on with a fractional right now. They have been hiring airline retirees, so 40+ is no issue at all.

I'm 47 and at the very bottom of the seniority list. No reason not to try - but know what you are getting into.

go for it.....theres several guys in my class in their 40's and 50's. (52). age 65 is now official.