Reading this thread has been like a nice fresh breeze blowing across my face. Great to see so much justified optimism.
I took the plunge at age 30 (I'm now 31-- I know, I know - a relative spring chicken!!) to chase my dream. A lot of my work buddies have told me I'm mad; members of my family now say they have the proof that I'm mad, but my wife is 100% certain I will get that airline job.
The thing is, times have changed in the workforce and the simple fact is this - get the required qualifications, throw your hat in the ring and in many ways your application at an older age is more attractive than the younger person's. You have (hopefully) gained some skills during your life that many younger applicants won't have developed yet, and airlines will be aware of this, and more than willing to benefit from them. Getting through your licensing requirements at an older age is a hell of a lot harder than doing it as a teenager supported by wealthy parents. Who wouldn't find the application of someone who has managed to qualify as a pilot at 30 or 40 attractive?? - the added pressures of holding down a job, marriage etc etc during your training immediately presents a person with excellent management skills. Tick number 1 in the box by my reckoning!!
Age is not an issue. Just your attitude. Be positive, always believe in yourself, and you WILL get there.
Proof of what I'm saying? I know of a 2nd Officer flying for an International Airline who was employed at age 52.
Never give up that dream!
Regards
T.