Hello. I’m new to this forum, and had just a few questions. I’ve read many of the “am I too old to be a pilot” forums with many great questions and responses–thanks for your responses.
I am 42 and have a Double M.S. in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, and am not thinking of a career change to becoming a pilot because of the money (especially since I know there is great variation in salary depending on one’s career path). My dream as a child was to be an astronaut, and although statistically possible, the chances of it happening were quite slim. I always thought if I couldn’t be an astronaut, being a pilot would be an extremely close runner up (no disrespect as I know being a pilot is most individuals on this forum’s 1st dream–just saying for me, it was a very close tie ).
My question, as I get ready to enter the ATP Career Pilot Program, is seeking information in order to take several factors into consideration. I know that I will definitely take a major initial hit on salary, which my wife and I are prepared to do, but I’m also trying to take into considersation some of benefits, and perks after retirement.
Assuming I am lucky/blessed enough to make it to the the “majors”, does anyone know how many years a pilot must fly in order to receive Dental, Medical, Vision (DMV), AND travel perks after the retirement age of 65? Again, I’m 42 (almost 43) so by the time I complete the ATP training with 1,500 hours, I would be a little over 45, so would have a bit under 20 years left before the mandatory retirement age. Also if I’m flying for 3-4 years with a Regional Airline, and am, again, lucky enough to get to the majors, I’d only have potentially 15-16 years of flying with the majors before having to retire–is this enough time to receive post-retirement benefits (DMV), and post-retirement flying perks for my wife and me (as we enter our “golden years”)?
Again, I hope my question was clear and non-offensive–I truly wouldn’t be considering a career change to a pilot if I didn’t KNOW it was an amazing career choice, and I was 100% passionate about being a pilot.
Any and all insight, is greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance.