It is a bit of a risky business, but it's always been that way.
jb500; Have you ever considered working for an airline based in one of the emerging market countries such as the UAE, Brazil, Mexico? Europe, although desirable, may not be feasible at this moment in time.
With regards to BBVA's interest rate, it's: Libor, 3 months + 2.25%, which totals to about 3.05% at the moment. Pound sterling, Libor, 3 months is currently at 0.8% per annum, the lowest in my lifetime - What a bargain! Although it's likely to be a lot higher than that in a couple of years.