Options ??
Historically you use to talk about a seven year cycle. I think 9/11 put pay to that, at least in the short term.
It all comes under the heading of supply and demand .
You are quite right, it is a risk paying for the training, with no certainty of employment at the end. Normally, but not always, the better students will be successful. It also helps to know somebody who can put a good word in for you at the right time.
Some might say that self funding is the acid test of commitment on your part - to take that risk. As always, a personnel choice.
The other options are airline sponsorship, or the military.