Originally Posted by PipeMan (Post 3788386)

I live below my means too. Have an emergency fund and all that, and don't need to pick up constant open time to make ends meet. I still would prefer not to be furloughed. Don't think I'm saying anything crazy, but some of us are fortunate to have the high earning spouse or family money. I don't have any of that!

Originally Posted by PipeMan (Post 3633650)

Is anyone like me where you get scared going in to work and flying? I think of the actual flying the plane as a hobby for me more or less, but I have thought about retiring and even home schooling my youngest. I am able to "work from home" with my other job sometimes so this will help. I get nervous going out to grocery stores and such and try to only go during times I know very few people are there, but I find it hard to escape that when going to airports and hotels.

The airports and downtown hotels are so crowded and always think people may make them a target of violence. Thankfully I don't do many overnights due to my bidding seniority and living close to the airport. I don't even park in the employee parking lot anymore because it forces us to walk through the front entrance where people are dropped off/picked up. I only park in the paid garage where passengers park so I can walk right to security. Sucks to pay that every time but I find it worth it. I know, I know, I shouldn't look at the news and see all the violence and shootings going on, I am working on this.

Just curious if anyone else has these thoughts. I'm sure homeschooling and doing more work around the house can keep me busy, but I would feel a bit "lost" not getting to fly cool jets occasionally.

Originally Posted by PipeMan (Post 3558795)

UAL Year 1/ Year 2

live in base
$78k wages
$~6500 per diem
$12k 401k
Around 300 block I think

Mix of line and reserve and trying to spend less time working on the road. For new guys planning financially, you will likely make plenty more than I did.

Also, another $300k or so from my hourly wage and shares in the contracting firm I work at and partially own. Although things have been good there, I am thinking of retiring and selling my shares and just flying. I live beneath my means like John Carr said and it is great advice. I could build seniority as an FO and pick a nice schedule that will work for me and my family and should be able to make enough money at the same time.

Merry Christmas