On the loan front there, even through OAT, you need to secure it. So still need to risk your home! The way to do it is a thorough business plan, not just to fool the bank. Make sure its genuine. You really need to know in your own mind that you can pay this money back in the case of a severe downturn of recruitment in the industry. All be it the world is short of pilots as we keep seeing in the likes of Flight Int and Flt Training News, it only takes a one off tragedy or terrorist threat for the industry to plummet once more. This is risky so make sure you can dig yourself out of a hole if needed.
On the jet salary front...new jet FO's do earn 44k! Obviously thats the higher end andas a result of self sponsoring a type rating. Then in 4/5 years in a quick promoting company like easyjet, you're looking at 90K (more with the 10% pay rise looming). THe whole scheme from groundschool to paying of the loan is more than financially viable. But it seems to be a lottery as to wether you're lucky enough to get the job, and then, if its a high paying one!
Good luck to all who go for it...but think carefully!