Getting a flying job is all about right place, right time. The industry is cyclical but a silver lining may be that Aer Lingus are opening a Gatwick base in March. They will definitely be hiring. Year 1 f/o is about 40k and capt. is about 78k plus 7k sector which is taxed. They have taken self sponsored guys straight out of oxford and jerez and also low time turbo proppers. Losing heart is understandable but if you're not in it you can't win it.