i'm in the same dilemma.
i went to the recent seminar at BHX, and 2 of their MAPS students just landed at BHX and came to talk to us. it was asked how much they have left inb their salaries after the loan, and they said it's a struggle for a while, but within a year you get quite a nice pay rise.
i guess for most airlines it will be tough to start with, except for the likes of BA.
PS. i might see you at Exeter if we're through to stage 3. all the best