Why do we do it?
It can't be for the money, surely.
Take my case.
April 2000 relocated to SW England - left VS traffic LHR c20K.
No aviation jobs immediately available down here - walked straight into a rail company
as a branch-line conductor, no rail experience - 2 months training - c17K plus a little commission. Virgin and First GW paying c19.5k plus comm for 'train managers' (CSDs or IFSs of rail - conductor). Branch drivers c23.5K main-line intercity c29-32k (again no rail exp necessary - one year training).
Why do I still apply for aviation jobs? Beacause I'm barkin' f**kin' mad that's why.
It's not the money - it's in the blood. Would I work in aviation for 9-12K? No.
That is exploitation and I am now only too well aware of companies paying this sort of money. Why am I telling you this? I don't know - perhaps to advise the younger types among you that unless you're going flying, aviation is maybe not a good career move. Look elsewhere in the real world and
GIVE THE SAD OLD BAS**RDS SUCH AS MYSELF MORE OF A CHANCE!
Now GIZ A JOB!