I have friends in much lower places, Squawk. :ok:

I know of a person who has said:


"If I had a taxable income of $50,000, I wouldn't know how to spend it all."

Good advice on this thread.

Consider gliding and ballooning.

You don't have to be a pilot to enjoy the thrill of flying.

Mickjoebill

Mostlytossas has it pretty close.

I'd recommend starting in 3-axis RAAus aircraft, (modern ones), where you can do several hours, at very reasonable cost, to gain a feel for flying. For best value - do this at a country airport, in low traffic conditions, where you can focus on the flying without distractions. You never know where it can lead.

In my own case - flew with CPL mate in 1962 - PPL in 63 - CPL in 65 - and today, at age 75, and 'retired' from my real career - I part-time instruct in a quiet country town. It's a very long term, and portable, skillset and it provides you with the important goal of maintaining your physical and mental health. I've found this is more important as each year ticks by.

happy days,

Right on Poteroo 😄🍷👍

I forgot that I started this thread. Think because it took a while to be approved - but the advice here is incredible. Been caught up with a new job last year but I've actually booked in for my first lesson on my Birthday in March.

The advice on this thread has given me a lot of confidence, so thanks to all of you!

Ooh, nice. Good time of year to be flying; much better than trying on a 40degC+ day when the plane can barely climb and even at 8,000ft it's still boiling hot.

Slatye, Don't speak so soon - March can go either way in Melbourne! :P

I can recommend gliding as a hobby though not sure where near Melbourne you could go. I started out gliding before a PPL and CPL and loved it especially gliding cross country. And Paragliding looks fun. Wish I did that when I was young and before knee opps!.