Vic,
I'm 35 and I have left a flying career for the IT field. I went back
to school this year, and got a job out of it. My starting salary in
IT is the same as it was after being in the commuters for 10
years(started at 16K/year). It was not worth torturing my family
anymore. And, 6 out of 8 of my collegues that made it out and got on
with the majors, have been laid off since 2002, after maybe a year or
two with them. I don't recommend it to anyone unless your in college
and just have to give it that shot like we all wanted to.
I'd recommend getting your IFR, commercial, CFI, and if you have the
spare cash your multi engine rating. I keep active flying by flight
instructing. You can do it on the side, and still support your
family. If you get busy enough w/ students, you can do IT consulting
on the side.
Good Luck.
Peter
(Vic) wrote in message om...
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
Similar Threads
Hybrid Mode
