This is a question I have heared from my friends and some of their family members. My take on it is : see a financial consultant.
Future airline stocks are a projection of the economy and spending ability of the general public. Mergers could possibly affect present retirement schedule agreements. The age 65 rule has been a contentious issue among pilot groups, so don't expect major concessions during merger talks.
My two-pence : if you're not going to make anymore in retirement benefits, than retire early and increase that nest egg by doing something different like business, flying a contract job or corporate.
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