Expert: David A. NewMyer - 7/23/2008

Question
Hi, my name is noel and since I was a kid i wanted to be an ATP , the problem is I couldnt get the time and the financial help for that , now Im 32 years old and almost ready to start my PPL to my ATP and CFI my financial for that is ok,but the economy around the field doesnt look ok!so could you advice me what to do? I want to do this because is my dream but also like every job I want to know what pay could be in the future as a regional and how long to get a major airline??some people say that you get good position after 15 years,am I old to try it? sorry a lot to ask,I really appreciate your answer!!

Answer
Hi, Noel:

I think that a lot of the answer has to come from you.  The question is:  what is it that you will ENJOY doing in your life (your working life) for the rest of your career years?  If you believe that you will enjoy flying, then, do it.....if you believe that you will enjoy something else, then, do that.  If this has truly been a life-long dream, then, the least you can do is follow that dream as long as it will take you to something of interest....

As far as what the industry will be doing and where you will be able to fly.......

First of all, the airline industry has ALWAYS been a cyclical industry, with its ups and downs coming every seven to ten years.  This cycle is no different except that it is coming only seven years since the start of the last downturn (which was 9/11 and its aftermath).  A

Second, as far as airline hiring is concerned, there was an increase in the pilot working age to 65 years late last year, so, that will give you more time to work as an airline pilot after you finish training (assuming you will hold your medical certificate).  The other thing to keep in mind is that there will continue to be a lot of airline retirements at the larger airlines, with hiring to follow those retirements.

Third, think of hiring outside of airlines, particularly with Corporate turbine operators and business jet operators.  They pay very well, many times on par with major airlines.  And, many of them have similar work schedules.

I hope that this helps!

All the best,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale