capt k.
8 years in, 9 years out, leaving the 2nd best thing i've ever done. the best thing was of course joining! regrets, i've had a few, in truth to few to mention.
agree with all that's been said so far, my own summary
1. better house
2. better car
3. better quality time with the wife
4. better quality time when not with the wife!
5. better current account balance
6. better holidays getting there in better seats
7. nobody shoots at you. (they try to blow you up right enough!)
on the downside
1. no crewroom banter
2. very little work satisfaction when compared to now.
3. responsibilty and talent will not equal respect and ability to improve the operation.
4. if you think the ability level at your sqn is varied, you've seen nothing! depending where you go standby to be amazed.
5. they will not honour whatever promises they make, you will spend the next 20 years having to fight to protect the t&c's you sign on the line for whilst some clown offers to do your job for free
6. enjoy your last gorrilla, dact, affil, acmi..... nothing will ever compare.
i'm at BA and often thank my lucky stars that i left when i did. nothing will ever compare with fj flying in civvy world but there is nothing to compare with my lifestyle now in the mob. golfing with the boys in j'burg and chewing the !!!!! down route keep you remembering all that you enjoyed and made you proud. taking better care and spending time at home with your nearest and dearest will make you happy you left.
best of luck.
ps i'm at BA but would recommend virgin as the place to go if it's long haul your looking for.