Originally Posted by
apin
Thank you for all the replies, they've certainly given me a lot to think about...
I think I'm as susceptible as anyone to 'grass is always greener' syndrome. The RAF can be a pain in the arse, and we don't get paid anything like the airlines, but I'm in a niche at the moment (which won't last forever, especially with what's going on in the world) where I don't spend much time away, its mostly a 10-4 work day, and pretty much work a 4 day week most of the time. Think I need to do a bit more research and decide what I really value.
The key factor pushing me out is the unknown- it's good at the moment but could quickly devolve into months away at a time, or I could be put in a desk job abroad for at moments notice, or some other equally !!!! job where I'm not flying or developing my career. Equally it's the fact my time isn't valuable to the RAF - e.g. they'll think nothing of putting an aircraft captain as a door guard for a 16 hour shift, as you're an available body, and I'm getting a bit old for that s###...
I'd still appreciate any more responses with rosters (type, airline, and best/worst months) if anyone has the time- I've only been in 7 years so I don't really have that network of mates at the airlines yet to ask, although it is slowly growing. 4 of my mates all have offers at tui/jet2 so I'll touch base with them in a year or so.
The only sure thing you've learned is Pilots are rarely ever happy
