Q: I am a 35-year-old attorney. I am seriously considering a radical change—quitting law, and going for a pilot certificate. It has been a decision I have been postponing, but I am now determined and fortunately I have the money I need to invest in getting the certificate. I would love to work for a major airline. Is my age a problem? Will potential employers consider my age as a pro or a con? If I were hiring I would rather hire a 35-year-old graduate than a 19-year-old. Would an airline be expected to do the same or show preference for the younger (assuming both have the same qualifications)?—JB
� A: JB, here is the short answer: No. At 35, you should have a decent shot at attaining the job of your dreams. However, you may be well into your mid- to late-40s by the time you come close to your present-day earnings, presuming that you are making at least $75,000 annually.
We have gone down the reality path numerous times over the years in this column, but bear in mind the significant financial and personal challenges that you will assume. If you are a private pilot, you can expect to invest at least $30,000 to progress through the ratings. Now, add to that another bunch of years earning 1,500 hours to attain an ATP. All the while, you will make entry-level wages while attempting to support a lawyer’s lifestyle. Don’t forget the new requirement to attend the ATP Certification Training Program. Check out AC 61.138. Once you earn your ATP, you will need to build experience to a minimum of at least 2,500 hours for any big-time airline to consider you. Competitive total time for a major airline new hire is about 5,000 hours with mega turbine time.
You are certainly young enough to make it happen if you can manage the sacrifices. Experience, not age, is the primary consideration at the majors. But, if your financial resources allow, it might be prudent to jump in full bore and immerse yourself into training with an academy. One strategy that you might consider is practicing law on the side. This will at least give you some additional revenue.
Related Articles
