Is it worth getting back into the industry??

[gunnaboy]

Hi Everyone,

I thought I would put this question to everyone here to get an opinion about the industry and its current climate.

I have been out of the industry for a couple of years due to personal reasons, but have recently thought about getting back in after reading about the current pilot shortage.

However for me to get back in I would need to get my I.R current again and finish off my ATPL subjects so I am planning to invest some money again ( which always seems the case with this industry ). I am allowing to get everything done within the year, but ask is it worth the effort? Will the airlines be still hiring within the next 12months?

I have approx 3000hrs TT , 1200hrs multi, 300hrs Turbine SE with 5 IR Renewals.

I value everyone's opinion whatever it may be. Thanks for your time.

[triathlon]

Bottom line mate,
Are you happy going to work doing what you are currently doing or would you rather be in a cockpit, regardless of any 'pilot shortage'. Thats the question you need to ask yourself.

[triathlon]

So what happens if you do not get in to the airlines if this is where you wish to end up, after having spent more money and time training?? Will you be unhappy with second best or will you still be happy because you are not going to work doing what you are currently doing?

[triathlon]

There are no short answers buddy. No one will tell you 'yeh mate, get back into it and qantas will be knocking at your front door'. do it because you want to, not because some one on this forum said you should.

[gunnaboy]

Thanks triathlon. I agree with what you say and admit sitting up the front of an aircraft sure beats spending 8 hrs a day driving around dealing with road rage.

[Monopole]

gunnaboy, short answer is yes, it is worth it and yes, the airlines will still be hiring in 12 months time.

I slightly disagree with some of triathlons opinions in that depending on what personal situation caused you to leave flying in the first place, you would need to make sure that the problem has been put to bed before you jump back into the deep end. For most of us other then the young ones, it is not an easy case as 'our hearts desire'.

That being said, running up north looking for work,living in ****e and working for ****e is no longer a requirement.

With the time you stated to have, I would be getting those subjects and getting current ASAP. There are some good operators with good machines looking for crew with alot less then that.

Good luck

Mono

[gunnaboy]

Many thanks Mono. I am looking around here in Brissie to see what options I have for starters.

[Aussie]

I wasnt around back in the good 'ole days, but from what the older lads say, there is no time like now to be in aviation!

Good luck

[coolchange666]

So you wanna come out of retirement...

well, a flying retirement anyway. I did and it was one of the best things I ever did. So gunnaboy.. for others in a similar position check out http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?t=311655

cheers,
cc