Family situation of a professional pilot
Hi all.
I have almost completed my PPL in Australia. I was looking to go on and get my CPL. Due to financial reasons and time restraints, it has taken me almost 2 years to get my PPL. Given this, it looks likely that it will be at least another 2 years till I get my CPL. That's a lot of time and money and I'll be at least 25 when I get it.
What worries me (if I do complete my cpl) is how the early career of a pilot may affect a relationship or plans to build a family. I realize the work is tough early on (if you can get it), long hours and low pay and it doesn't get that much easier (long hours, better pay).
I really enjoy flying and would love to do it as a career however I also know my long term partner wants to settle down and have children. The way I see it is I either go through with the CPL and risk my relationship and get nowhere as a career pilot or I get my PPL and fly on the rare occasion I would be able to afford it. Has anyone navigated this kind of situation? I realize it's quite dependent on personal feelings but would love to hear others experience regarding this kind of situation.
Sorry for the rambling.
P.S. sorry if this is in the wrong forum.