Pay took a hit a few years ago, but has leveled off and is still pretty damn good at the top levels. However, how long do you have to be in, and what does it take to see that kinda pay?
I know of guys who are in their early 20s making close to $100k as controllers, and some of them talk about switching back to flying. Obviously, they'd take a HUGE paycut to go into the regionals or anything, bt how long would it be til they'd see that same kinda scratch again, and would it be worth it?
I tell them no, stay with the controlling if you like it, but who knows how that is.
r
Thoughts?
The answer to your question is yes--it would be worth the switch.
1. Pay is as low as it will go and this was brought about by a "FAR REACHING CAMPAIGN" that amounted to a "Great Filling Station Holdup!" This was led by the ATA Mafia and the respective Airline Board of Directors with the help of "friendly" Bankruptcy Judges (not real judges by the way.) This Mob mentality driven campaign could only have been achieved through the "old" bankruptcy laws. It could be more difficult today. This whole environment was created in the Bush II pro management/anti-labor political environment. Interestingly enough, the Eastern strike and Continental Bankruptcy engineered by Frank Lorenzo occurred under the administration of George Bush #1.
2. Don't look at today's pay rates. They will greatly improve in coming years with upcoming contract negotiations. The pendulum has swung too far for management. The "Taking It Back Campaign" will be a powerful force. However, the initial "taking it back" will probably be led by the APA pilots. Their timing for redress is first. They will reset the benchmark.
3. The "supply vs demand" for pilots favors labor. Only about 300 commercial licenses were issued last year. There is a great number of pilots that will be retiring in coming years--even if there is a change in mandatory retirement age.
4. Government forecasts still call for an explosive growth in air travel demand in future years. The industry and companies have been on a capacity reduction trend since shortly after 9/11. If the present demand continues to grow, capacity will have to grow which will create more jobs.
5. Other very important factors in switching is job gratification and the "not taking your job home with you" benefit. These factors have an intangible value that is priceless. Most people I know always look forward to coming to work, and also look forward to going home--without taking the job home.
In summary, do not look at the wage and benefits at major carriers today! They can only get better and will! Priceless advice that is often given by the old wise ones, is the time to get into this industry is when things look the worst! There is still a bright and rewarding future for this profession! Like most of my fellow professionals, I love my job and the people I work with!
