No guesses, did you actually read my post? I spent ages putting that together and answered all your questions with accurate data. If you still aren't satisfied I suggest you contact BALPA. I believe you can join as a a student and will have access to even more detailed data. You're right that it is important to understand the finances but what's the alternative? Many people pay 100k up front with no prospects of a job. Yes, you're not going to be living the high life for the first couple of years but bear in mind many of the cabin crew take home around 1000-1200 per month and live and work out of LHR. As do nurses etc, so it is possible. I've told you the salary after 8 yrs will be around 80,000+ - is that enough for you?