cinman,
Yes, for what it's worth, I did get quite a lot of negative comments, and picked up even more negative vibes, when considering a CPL(H). I reckon it was either because I'm female, or because I'm older than the average wannabe (wrong side of 40
). But once I got to ground school it was fine, and as soon as I'd passed a few exams people started to take me seriously. A lot of wannabes, especially older ones, do fall by the wayside; maybe that's the reason for it. I've actually had loads of encouragement from the people who really matter; ignore the rest of them. But what everyone's saying is true - it will cost you shedloads of money, be tons of work, and there may be no job at the end of it. I love flying, had most of the dosh, and wanted to do it for the challenge anyway. But let's be realistic about this; if I'd had any common sense at all I'd have spent the money on something sensible and stayed as a PPL.
Having said that, if you want to go for it, I wish you lots of luck.