Why Shouldn't I...

[RyanC-NM-609]

I think I have every thought possible in my head as to why this is something I want to do. However, I want to make sure I am being realistic. Right now, I am in a, "nothing to lose" position. The job I have sustains me just fine, but I don't see myself doing it forever, nor do I have an incredibly strong desire to move up and claim my stake within the company / industry. I have no real attachments - no kids, no wife.

I'm curious to know what turns people away from a career in aviation. Clint, I am wondering if you had any moments where you thought you were doing the wrong thing and wanted to stop. What makes people leave said career? What encourages people to stop early on in the career or even training?

I think it's important for me to know the negatives. I understand that there is probably no chance at all that any individual will find a job they are truly 100% content with, but I would like to know some of the undesirables associated with the career.

That being said, I'm going to get on the phone and schedule my intro flight tomorrow. Just got back from a trip to Lincoln, NE, and flew up and back. I found myself trying to get every little glimpse of the cockpit while the door was open - I am incredibly excited to get the ball rolling!

[SkyWest Clint]

Ryan,

Welcome to the forums. Some people stay away from this career for a couple of reasons. I would have to say a lot of people think the idea of investing $50,000 to $120,000 (depending on where you train) to make $19,000 dollars a year is crazy. Right now the industry is in a standstill with little movement. So right now there isn't even a nice carrot to dangle out in front like a quick upgrade to captain. Some people quit in training but that’s do to them giving up and not giving 100%. This job isn't for everyone. I’ve never thought I have made a wrong choice with this career. Sometime I wish I stayed a senior first officer and not become a captain because of the schedule I once had. After my son was born I really hate being gone for 4 or 5 days a week. The good news is the carrot of doing day trips one day keeps me going.

Thanks for taking the time to make your first post. These forums are a great place to get up-to-date information from professional pilots. I wish I had this tool when I was starting out. Please take the time to post all your questions and I’ll do my best to answer them. With me being on the road and traveling a lot it might take me a couple of days to answer you. The only request I have is to separate out each question into its own thread so others searching can easily find it.

Thanks, and again welcome to the forums.

Clint