As with geo politics, the self righteous willfully decline to acquiaint themselves with the facts to avoid having their assertions challenged, even fabricating falsehoods about things like discretion or fuel decisions (we get almost daily company emails recommending taking extra fuel for this or that. Never had my decision on either matter ever questioned). The front loaded investment and low initial net pay is no different to massive investment in degrees, qualifications (especially in the US) and then taking internships to try and enter the world of investment banking or law. Fact is that net pay for captains at Ryanair is commonly in five figures per month depending on base, full local taxes. Upgrade to command is very quick. Ex cadets also often offset huge amounts of prior costs against current earnings (depending on tax jurisdiction).
I have worked at a couple of medium to large airlines which were widely lauded as the best jobs in aviation, drawing in pilots from the likes of Emirates, Virgin and easyjet ... and I found them absolutely awful. (Incidentally; Easyjet wanted €25k for the rating for a DEC - Ryanair didn't charge me a penny, neither up front, or from pay - so i went to the latter). I don't think many Ryanair pilots would describe their employment as fabulous, but once out of the first year or two as a cadet, it definitely counts as middling to good. With a family near to one's base, the family would describe it as fabulous though, mainly due to the roster. Occasionally things happen which can be profoundly annoying, some leave because of it or rile against it, accumulating perceived slights ... but those who ignore it and move on, have an enjoyable, stress free time there.
Pension is way below par though, the lack of profit share rankles, and no medical cover becomes a consideration when you get older. Even so, first get the facts, do the sums, and then come back here.
Last edited by midnight cruiser; 7th October 2025 at 04:38.