I think this is one of the most sensible threads that I have read here for a good while. I too am the wrong side of 40 and must have got one of the last BCPLs issued (sorry must remember to call it a frozen ATPL then I can delude myself it is something more than basic). I think us old farts must be realistic, viz:
All the money we spent on flying is a gamble and the odds are not to good, so only bet what you can afford to lose.
As EGKK stated if you fall outside the normal age/experience curve you will need something else on your C.V. to save it from immediate dispatch to the big recycling bin on the floor.
And most importantly to second EGKK’s “Network, network, network” add another network. If you are applying cold for a job there is the “Human Resources” hurdle and if that happens to be in the hands of a HR professional you will fall, since you,
Will not fit with the age/experience model.
Will be seen as to set in your ways to fit in with the company culture.
Will “Obviously struggle” working with younger people with seniority over you.
If however you are “know” it becomes a case of,
Can they do the job?
Do I want to work with them?
Will they let me down?
How do I get them past HR?
Am I about to give up the hunt? No as several times in my working life I have been told I do not meet the criteria for a job as I was to old/young or over qualified/lacked qualifications. However since they knew me and I was available, “I could do the job until the post was filled by a permanent employee”. Net result, I became that employee. Where there is a job there is hope.
And finally..
Job specifications are for the guidance of wise men and the obedience of fools.