Never thought I'd be where I am now... contemplating retirement from the military. Trying to get an idea for my next career, and thinking of trying for the regionals, and looking for some feedback. I completely understand the industry can/will change in the next 2 years...

45 years old
25 years military service (not an aviator though)
Master's Degree (Electrical Engineering)
CFI, CFII, MEI (MEI soon)
Will have ATP (or at least hours requirement)

Earned my ratings on my own, and am currently teaching at a 141 school on the weekends. I obviously love aviation and enjoy structured/procedured flying (if that makes sense).

Pay/QoL from a flying job isn't the highest priority for me (we're financially sound). Location would be highest priority (or ability to commute).

I don't mind constantly changing schedules (been doing it for 20+ years). More time away from the wife, the better.

Right now I'm considering teaching full-time as I enjoy it (finding a niche to specialize in), but thinking of trying to find other flying jobs. And if it doesn't work out, I can go back to teaching, at least with a little more experience.

Thoughts/Suggestions?

Thanks!

Given the industry dynamics, you could easily get hired by a regional and likely upgrade fairly quickly (less than five years). You could probably even make it to a major.

45 is not too old...unless you had weak flying aptitude to begin with. After age 40 it simply gets harder to learn new tricks. The fact that you've been flying GA already means you'd probably be good to go. But only you can truly self-assess. Worst case, it doesn't cost much to give it a try...

If you don't mind low pay and poor QOL, it can be a great hobby.

51 years old.
Practiced law for past 23 years.
CFI, CFII, MEI, ATP, CFIG at my own expense.
Last kid at home is a rising high school senior.
Starting class at 9E next month.

GO FOR IT!

Actually they really can use somebody like you around there.

How old is too old?

One word answer : 65

Thanks for the replies, I appreciate it.

I know the 65 is the limit, but seeing a reply like tvlawyer is what answered my question.

So long as you have external means of support and your retirement is in the bank an aviation career makes for a good working hobby. I believe that airlines like those who come with self sponsorship.

Skyhigh

41 years old, ex-military who took early retirement under TERA, have a Masters degree but am using the post-9/11 bill to get my training at a technical college and getting an Associates in Aeronautics. It will probably not be until I am 44 before I have enough hours to get hired by a regional.

No, you are not too old!!!