Double Back thanks for starting this great post.
Having come from an "aviation" family I've been around aircraft since I was 4 years old when there were no jet airliners but just props! If you count time from the start (PPL), I've been flying for 39 years.
Now I'm looking at giving flying away in about 3 years. I have had a great career and for me flying has been like having a lovely wife with whom you have shared some wonderful times, but the mother inlaw (management etc.) has become worse as time goes by!
Yes flying has been a big part of my life and I"ll miss it, but my son flies for the same airline and he will help keep me in touch. As others have said there is more to do in life when you retire, I certainly have plans which will keep myself and the first wife active!
Min It has been a long time since the Exec Fleet and I'm glad to see you are still "terribly important", all the best and enjoy the gradual let-down!