Two different things in discussion: Flying Airplanes and the Flying Job.
Knowing what I know now, I wouldn't trade my current job for a job in an airline, unless it was on a flag carrier or similar. All the rest seems pretty awful, regarding free time and pay. I love my family too much for that.
Now, the flying bit is what really matters, and that's what drives so many people towards becomming a pilot; all in all it's a great challenge anyway you look at it.
In my very own opinion flying cargo should be more interesting than PAX all day long; freight dogs are a very cool bunch of people
. It would be my natural choice, if I would be really desperate to become a professional pilot, and didn't mind working when everybody is sleeping or didn't care to have a social life, nevermind a normal family.
If I get to win the lottery, I'll follow J. Travolta's example and would travel the world, with the exception of the plane choice: A319 private jet would suit me fine
