Hi - you are not alone!!
I also have a mortgage and responsibilities and have the same subsequent worries. I decided that I would go for broke quite literally and do an integrated course, probably with BAe in Jerez or possibly OATS.
I feel that this possibly increases the chances of an earlier route into the airlines, but I am not kidding myself that I am even likely to get a sniff until at least 700 hours. I would not be doing this if I didn't think that somehow, I would gain the required hours to make a decent career. I love flying, but needs must. I am told that there is pleanty of work out there, but be prepared to be continually broke and fly what and when you can. I personally plan to go for instructor rating as earlier as I can. I am not the expert in this area though so will leave it to others.
Talking of which..loans. I have come across 2 options:
1. Career Development Loans. £8K max -Clysedale well known for them. Government pay interest for term of course plus a holiday period.
2. I saw HSBC Saturday. Push this with the branches as a lot of the staff are not aware that the Professional Development Loans they offer apply to pilot training.
I was offered over £15,000 with my house as security. I took £14,500 without but they insisted that I closed my own account and took out their life cover. By the way this interest is defered not paid by the Government
Was not too chuffed about being told that I had to close my own account so went to my bank LLoyds, to see if they did similar. They do but only for courses in this country and I had accepted BAe in Jerez. You will need proof that you have been accepted onto a course. I don't know if this presents difficulties for modular students.
Anyway, I wish you luck. Any questions make a posting or drop me a mail.
[This message has been edited by Harves (edited 14 March 2001).]