Which is why some are PFO's. Almost everyone can be senior in some category for a long time.

If you did a full military career, this is by definition a second career. You shouldn't expect to be 'senior' here in a left seat widebody.

Has anyone said otherwise?

Bless those youngsters. I for one could not do this same job for 40 years. I’ve had career ADD, has kept it interesting.

Most of the PFO’s can be senior in a CA seat also.

For me, probably not going early. Why? by the time I'm in my 60s, I can be senior in something, even if it's a widebody FO. If I don't want to fly a trip, I'll probably be able to drop it or swap it (these won't be crappy narrow body trips). And worse case, if I have to fly, probably an easy trip to Europe or Asia.

I'll still have health coverage, more $$$ added to my retirement, and S3 travel benefits to go places on my days off. Kids will be out of the house, so on my 20 days off a month, I'm sure I'll have time for my hobbies.

I think some guys talk a good game about leaving early, but not as many pull the plug early as we think.

When I looked at the mandatory retirement list at the beginning of 2017, there were 280-ish 65 retirements. I've moved up 450 numbers. Of course I am on the junior side of the pyramid and not the apex.

Interesting reading, that retirement list. There is one guy that has a 2059 retirement date. I'm pretty sure I'll be dead by then!

Your last comment is spot on. Guys want to get "cool points" at the bar because somehow claiming that this job is an afterthought, or some such thing, seems to be a badge of street cred. God forbid someone actually say they like their profession and get pride and enjoyment from.

Beyond that, all the reasons you just stated seem to keep guys flying until age 65. In fact I have recently noticed guys lamenting leaving at 65. That's sort of creepy on the other side of the discussion. It is important that no matter how much we might enjoy this profession (and I do) that we have something else in life that motivates us. Otherwise guys go from 777 captain one day, to S3B priority on the standby list the next and have a hard time adjusting. They tend to be the ones who die at age 67... not even enjoying their retirement.



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FYI. Both you and your spouse can remain on the company health plan until age 65. It costs more than when you are employed but still a better deal than the private market for similar coverage.

No, and I didn't say they did either.