Gone both ways, from the cockpit to the wrench, and wrench to cockpit, and a lot of time spent doing both. More money to start? You're kidding, right?
Do a little more research. I'm not saying you wouldn't enjoy it, or that you couldn't make a living at it...just not a good one.
Thirteen to twenty four months of school makes you...an entry level mechanic, able to earn entry level wages.