the ever occuring question...

no localizer here · Post by **no localizer here** » Wed Jul 28, 2004 7:37 pm

This has probably been discussed a million times already, but here it goes:

every few years working in this industry i find asking myself:"what am i doing here? - i should go back to school and get a normal job!"

that question of course is always triggered by the circumstances we live in (meaning what have to put up with) or the people we work for or both.

so, a couple of years ago i started this new flying job (am still there) and as of late haven't been flying much. because we get paid a small base plus mileage, i don't make exactly a killing. the company is not interested in flying too much, because they make more money flying less (although a bit more than this, sitting on the ground for 8 days, would be better)). it might be hard to understand, but some people might understand how you can make more with less and then guess who i'm talking about.

so, of course because of that and the fact that i've been here got a bit more experience and such i, just like anyone else, joined the crazy rat race sending out resumes to about 35 companies, made visits, a million phone calls etc. etc.

i am not saying anything you guys don't know and haven't done yourself... i just keep wondering when enough is enough and since i am not getting younger i should take the plunge go to school and work in an industry in which one makes lots of money and gets the respect of being human, wanting to lead another life than just at the whim of the operator.
and when will this industry finally pick up??...when?, when?

....looking for that localizer to come in.

DiscoDashSeven · Post by **DiscoDashSeven** » Wed Jul 28, 2004 7:47 pm

I consider myself very fortunate in that not a day goes by that I don't appreciate my job. I've had months that I've only flown a few hours but the few hours I did fly made it all worth while. There are days I ask why but it always has something to do with the logistics of flying.

For myself, having a "normal job" would only stand as a constant reminder of the life I used to lead.

I say stick with what makes you happy. Just one man's opinion.

.80@410 · Post by **.80@410** » Wed Jul 28, 2004 9:45 pm

You really need to ask yourself what you want.

And you need to find out where you want to be in 10 years..or even 5.

Be honest with yourself, and if this current job, or aviation in general won't make you happy...or if you won't BE happy in 5-10 years the way things are going..then make a change.

I guess wha I am trying to say is: Be pro-active. Because only you can prevent forest fires...

Nope, that's wrong..

Only You can change your current path and if you're not happy what's the point in doing it?

Midnight_Sun · Post by **Midnight_Sun** » Wed Jul 28, 2004 10:12 pm

No Loc,

I am in the same boat as you, this industry is wacked and I dont think i have it in me to compete with these shits that want to work for next to nothing much longer. My girlfriend is fed up, im tired of moving around, my family is a long ways away, and for what? A chance at the next level? a chance to work my way up to the next level of bullshit?

For me, finally after 9 years, flying has turned into a job and i am starting to realize that even though i have been to alot of places and seen alot i would not have otherwise, it may be time to move on and start concentrating on a stable lifestyle. Flying is no longer everything anymore. Good luck to you what ever you do.

just another pilot · Post by **just another pilot** » Wed Jul 28, 2004 10:47 pm

Here is something for many of you to consider; if you do decide to go to/back to school, much of your experience/training can be used for advanced standing towards your degree. In fact, some schools may even give you your major. Take a few courses and see where it leads you.