My advice for what it's worth, DON'T DO IT MATE, forget the "things are looking up" bull and keep yer money in your pocket,
Qualifications to say this? well I'm 41, 1100 Hrs CPL/IR, JAA instructor, ATPL groundschool lecturer and can't even get my CV past the first PFO stage because, (and I've heard it first hand from a major TP recruiter,) I'm too old and considered a training risk!.
Well of course I think that's bollox - why does my age make me a training risk compared to some early 20's sub 200 Hr numptie off an integrated course with a few hours solo, a couple of land aways and a pile of PICUS to show in their thin little logbook?
Rant over - I'm off to put on my zip up tartan slippers, get out the pipe and flick through the latest Stannah stairlifts catalogue whilst sipping my pre bedtime sanatogen.
Any recruiters reading this and looking for someone with a bit of personality and experience of both flying and life - I'm looking for a job, (still) and I'd be pleased to hear from you.
Magoo