I read with consternation the letter (Flight International 9-15 April) about the lad giving up his aviation dreams. I can only fervently hope he doesn't do this, that he finds some way to pursue his goal and does not settle for anything less.I am currently right seat in a Boeing 727 for a US national carrier.
I am 41; it took me 10 years in Douglas DC3s and two years in Convair Cv340s to get this far. I have no regrets. Indeed I have loved every step of the journey. To be a pilot you may have to leave hearth and home, kith and kin, perhaps work another career to pay for training, but if you live to fly, it is worth it. I hope the young man changes his mind.
Tony Buttacavoli
Michigan, USA
Source: Flight International