I left a colourful LCC in 2000 and joined a far east Company. I can commute and have straight days off at home. In the meantime I changed Aircraft type as well. I have some other pain but there is no perfect world. I could compromise the distance by the value of 10 days home straight on my time. Salary is competable as well.
There are jobs in middle east and far east where you can stay with the family. It is not for everybody to choose that path but it works for me as my days off are mine and no Crew control is calling me and ask if I am available to fly on my day off. If You like to stay in the sand pit then there are options as well. There are some oasis out there as well where the grass is green. Set yourself a goal and then evaluate.
If you want to get more insight PM or E-mail me
[email protected]
NG