Originally Posted by
Sykes
Just curious: Are there any pilots here who have experience at a regional or mainline carrier that would advise against this path? I agree that there is a lot of merit to choosing a different career path and making enough money that you can fly on your own dime, but for lack of a better term I'm seeing a lot of rationalization from people that chose not to follow the dream rather than those that chose to follow the dream and regret it. There is a ton of value in that perspective, but as others have pointed out it may not be especially well balanced ... many who made the leap and love it are hanging out elsewhere.
Not exactly addressing your question, but I'm good friends with two UA and one AA wide-body captains who are strongly discouraging their own children and a neighbor's kid from following their career paths. All 3 have experienced a lot of turbulence and set-backs in their Part 135 careers, and although they don't regret their choices they can't recommend the path.