I changed career into flying aged 30 in early 2007. The pre-recession world - and airline industry in particular - was a different kettle of fish back then. Even then I hesitated, reluctant to give up my successful, if unfulfilling, career for a dream. I only proceeded because:-
- The study didn't scare me as I've never struggled academically
- I could afford the training without going into significant debt
- My wife could afford to pay all the bills indefinitely if I failed to get a job
- I did not have any children
- Job prospects were reasonable
- There was no recruitment bias against those aged 30+
Can you tick all of the above in 2015? The industry is very different now. It has consolidated. Many airlines have disappeared. Many routes into the industry in Europe are now hopelessly truncated, if not doomed as career cul-de-sacs. Even the jobs in growth areas, such as with the low cost operators, are offering terms and conditions that would make the most desperate dreamer hesitate.
I would caution against anyone considering risking their family's livelihood on a dream. Only pursue it if you have little to lose.