ATPL at the age of 37?
 

I am thinking of embarking on a career as a pilot at the age of 37. I have previously held a PPL. I also wear contact lenses and am just outside the requirements for a class 1 medical. I have spoken to the CAA and they have agreed that I can take a class 1 medical but it will have a deviation that I can only fly UK registered aircraft, but the deviation will be removed in the future.
If I gain a frozen ATPL probably at 39. Will my age and eyesight make it hard to secure an airline job?

I'm afraid it is a personal motivator, each will share their views as well as opinions with you, but ultimately you and you only grade the importance of ambition against that of risk and loss. I frequently remind myself, existence is but a relatively short chapter in the book of life, and for me the notion of not trying to fulfil a life long ambition is unquestionable.

Consider what you may gain from becoming commercially qualified and compare that against what you may lose.

What ever you decide, the very best of luck :ok:

Hi Nick

Im not saying it cant be done but you certainly won't have the same opportunities as younger guys (Im an oldie myself and started age 35 btw!). Some companies will rule you out straight away! (whether its legal or not!)
I'm not sure about the medical restriction..when would it be removed? If you are saying that you only can apply to G-reg operators when you qualify then I seriously think the cards are very much stacked against you. I think in betting terms you would be known as an "outsider"!
Alph:ok:

Edited to remove txtspek.HWB

It can definitely be done at 37. Depending on the person of course and your goal (what do you mean by airline?). I have met pilots starting late having less problem than some youngers, because more able to network perhaps... Finding your entry level job without being able to leave the UK, sure it will be a challenge however.

In itself your personal situation doesn't look that bad (age, medical), problem is the aviation industry now and its future doesn't look that good.

Thanks all. I think the restriction on my medical will be lifted when I qualify but I have a young family so would be looking to find work in the UK.