wow... an eye-opener..!
Years ago I thought i'd like to be a commercial pilot, circumstances drove me in another direction...
Base country.. any (depends on contract location )
hours /month - average 45/wk, 180/month
monthly salary - varies a bit depending on location - last contract €14000/m before tax €14000 after tax.
benefits - accommodation paid, per-diem, one return flight home per contract.
downside - sometimes long breaks between contracts, so careful financial management required.
happy - absolutely, gimme a desk anyday.. !