too old
sean,
I've been mulling over this a bit and I'm afraid that you are right in that the offshore operators would probably be ideally looking for someone a bit younger than yourself. They (the operators) would potentially get a longer service out of the applicant and like it or not, an 'average' 47 year old pilot is statisically a greater training risk than an 'average' 27 year old.
However, all is not lost. There is actually lots of onshore flying where age can be a benefit. Like or not, but passengers often initially associate grey hairs with experience, whether or not the pilot actually has 'experience commensurate with age.' This then puts the passengers (especially the nervous ones) more at ease.
Flight training and single pilot charter (IFR or not) are two areas where a few grey hairs can actually be of benefit, rather than an impediment.
So, like you say, maybe you just have to readjust your career goals slightly. I would personally aim for CPL + FI (but then budget for an IR a couple of years later.)
I hope that this helps to lift your spirits slightly and the best of luck with everything.
I've been mulling over this a bit and I'm afraid that you are right in that the offshore operators would probably be ideally looking for someone a bit younger than yourself. They (the operators) would potentially get a longer service out of the applicant and like it or not, an 'average' 47 year old pilot is statisically a greater training risk than an 'average' 27 year old.
However, all is not lost. There is actually lots of onshore flying where age can be a benefit. Like or not, but passengers often initially associate grey hairs with experience, whether or not the pilot actually has 'experience commensurate with age.' This then puts the passengers (especially the nervous ones) more at ease.
Flight training and single pilot charter (IFR or not) are two areas where a few grey hairs can actually be of benefit, rather than an impediment.
So, like you say, maybe you just have to readjust your career goals slightly. I would personally aim for CPL + FI (but then budget for an IR a couple of years later.)
I hope that this helps to lift your spirits slightly and the best of luck with everything.
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Eire
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Seang. Dont waste your time and money. Enjoy your PPLH and use it to get out and about in the world. The chances of getting employment that in any way recognises your input of cash and sweat is NIL. The flying world, particularly the helicopter side is essentially unsustainable so there is little money for pay. The North Sea requires a finite number of pilots...they've got them. Dont believe the ads. Believe me, you're up against it here and dont let rose tinted specks (2 pairs of course) put you badly wrong. I think a Shell tanker driver job would do me.... at least it would double my pay. Good luck.
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: USA
Age: 47
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
How Optimistic....
With regards to the previous post, don't let yourself get talked down by moaners - it took me 4 years to get to a position where I work at a job I love, with time off to follow what I want to do with my life, and because I don't feel the need for the flashest new car every 2 years, I have plenty of money to do what I want, pay the bills and still put away a decent amount.
Getting here took a few sleepless nights, arguments about money and living on the cheapest the supermarket had to offer, but hard work and remaining enthusiastic paid off.
As for age, I work with a pilot who started training at 52, and he didn't have a particularly hard time finding employment once he got his hours up.
Be realistic, don't look at things with rose tinted glasses, but don't let other people talk you out of your dream, only you know your own circumstances well enough to make those decisions.
Good luck whatever you decide
Getting here took a few sleepless nights, arguments about money and living on the cheapest the supermarket had to offer, but hard work and remaining enthusiastic paid off.
As for age, I work with a pilot who started training at 52, and he didn't have a particularly hard time finding employment once he got his hours up.
Be realistic, don't look at things with rose tinted glasses, but don't let other people talk you out of your dream, only you know your own circumstances well enough to make those decisions.
Good luck whatever you decide
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: England... what's left of it...
Posts: 161
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I would say the last two posts are a good example of the concept of "balance".... and making a balanced decision.
I must've read 500 or more in either vein... the decision is still ultimately personal. Sean, I'm in a very similar position to yourself, and the same age. I've given myself a couple of months to finally decide which way to go, to the answer the nagging "what if" feelings. Either way, I'll stick with what I decide.
My view to now is that it is far from impossible at 47, but the probabilities are less favourable. That's what it comes down to.
I accept the "enjoy your PPL" view. But, after a few years of both PPLs... what is there left to do? It just isn't the same IMO.
Hope you make the right decision for you
I must've read 500 or more in either vein... the decision is still ultimately personal. Sean, I'm in a very similar position to yourself, and the same age. I've given myself a couple of months to finally decide which way to go, to the answer the nagging "what if" feelings. Either way, I'll stick with what I decide.
My view to now is that it is far from impossible at 47, but the probabilities are less favourable. That's what it comes down to.
I accept the "enjoy your PPL" view. But, after a few years of both PPLs... what is there left to do? It just isn't the same IMO.
Hope you make the right decision for you
