Vic,

When I went to college (spent the first semester at Embry-Riddle), I had
to chose between flying and engineering. I couldn't afford the flying,
so I chose engineering, figuring (correctly) that I could then afford to
fly. That was 25 years ago. I now do C++, Java, Windoze, and Linux
(scientific and engineering software), got my IR last year, and am
working on my commercial now. Not to fly in the majors. I just love
the idea of taking people for rides and would love to have the
opportunity to do scenic flights during foliage season. If I were to
pick my dream job, it would be teaching high school physics. At this
point in my life, though, I have a wife, kid, and mortgage (and part of
a plane) to support. Starting salary, though better than flying, is
around $26K here. Maybe in 10 years, I can teach and fly a bit on the
side, but not now. I fly for fun (and it is fun) when I want. I chose
software development as a career, partially because I could have more of
a choice where to live (one of the reasons I got out of Aeronautical
Engineering). I guess this is a long-winded way of saying: If you are
truly that passionate about flying, see if you can make it work. Just
recognize the hurdles, and realize that, at this stage in your life,
it's not just about you. Some of the other posters have made references
to the time away from home. Personally, that wouldn't bother me if I
only had a wife, but kids are an entirely different story. They're only
5 once.

Vic wrote:
Hi,

I am a 35 year old software programmer thinking about a possible
career change into aviation. I am currently working on my PPL.
I've come to know some pilots who are currently flying for ASA and
Comair. Both of them made UNDER 17,000.00 last year. They are both
young guys without families, homes,etc.. so it's a bit easier for
them to ride this through. Anyhow, since I haven't made up my mind
yet, I would love to hear from any of you who have been in a similar
situation. Especially if you are around my age, made the switch from a
previous career, are married, have children and a mortgage. You get my
point. How do you pay continue to pay the bills? I will obviously take
a huge hit salary speaking, but I was shocked at how low the starting
salaries are!! With my wife, children and mortgage, I could qualify
for food stamps on that kind of pay. Also, since that would put my
family below the poverty level, would I even have to pay income tax?
Not to mention I will also have to make payments on student loans if
I choose to go ahead with this.

My CFI tells me to avoid the regionals at all costs. He suggests
flying corporate, but after some research the starting salaries for a
corporate pilot seem to be just as low. He also said that in a few
years there will be a pilot shortage. If there is a pilot shortage in
3-5 years, what does this actually mean for newly rated commercial
pilots who are looking for their first job? If anyone has any thoughts
I would love to hear them. Thanks in advance!

Vic


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