Hi All,
I have to post this because I sitting on the fence and need some additional advice/direction. I've finally made it to the point where I can get hired by a regional or freight dawger. I've spent, as most of you have, an enormous amount money getting the ratings, time, and degree so that I can follow my dream of flying for a living. However, I'm struggling with trying to come up with a viable means of surviving on the meager FO pay. I don't want my family to suffer but I've spent way to much money and life cycles not to at least give it a try.
Some background.
Why am I doing this? I currently work in IT (degrees in both IT and Aviation), and make a comfortable living at it. But it sucks....I hate going to work and dealing with the small people and cube life. Just can't see myself doing this for the rest of my life. I only started this career as a means to pay for flying. I do understand that there are small petty people in aviation as well, but I believe not as much.
Questions:
I did some initial inquires at AE, Mesa and Lakes. All would like me to come and talked to them. Actually did the first interview with Lakes. But I would like to know if there is any other regional or even a freight dawger that I should talk to as well (maybe Horizon?) Which is better or offers a real living wage?
How do I get additional flight time or pay? Are they (airlines) flexible enough to allow me to get a second non flying job? I was thinking I might be able to get a part time software development job, but I would need to have a fairly stable schedule. Is this possible? Is there any decent medical benefits?
I have a about 1300 TT, 200 multi so I meet most of the minimums, and from what I've been told could upgrade to Capt pretty quick. Should I stay and fly as Capt or try to jump to the majors as fast as possible? Would this help or hurt my career? I also have a couple friends at Frontier, who have pledged their silver bullet to me once I get the required turbine time. Should I hold out for that?
What would you would do if you were me, knowing what you do now? I know some of you are going to say.."don't do it", but thats not an option, I've already spent the money. Knowing that the whole industry and economy is going to crap, should I just hold off for now?
Thanks,
577nitro