Are You TOO Old for Flight Training : Career Change to Aviation

Are thinking about making a career change at 30 or 40 and you are wondering… “am I too old to go to flight school and become a pilot?” That is exactly what I am talking about in this video
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Track: Raven & Kreyn - Muffin [NCS Release]
• Raven & Kreyn - Muffin...

[@UTarcher72]

i'm 46 and going for it. I may be crazy, but i don't want to live with regrets of things i didn't do.

[@UTarcher72]

@@74gear Instrument rating done, just working on finishing CPL.

[@airmackeeee6792]

@@UTarcher72 good work mate!

[@contort69]

I'm 44 and I'm going to be joining you in the skies to brother, as long as we can pass those physicals there is no stopping us

[@mgcomedy]

Go do it man!

[@theflyingguy7279]

Good for you.. I'm 40 and just done my first solo flight and I'm also going for it :))

[@BeverlyAcupuncture]

Went to medical school at 55, it was my dream and I made it. You are never too old to go after your dreams.

[@miletello1]

I'm 33 and have been a police officer for 7 yrs...I'm currently an investigator at my local dept. and currently burned all the way out...LE has taken a toll on me. I've always loved aviation and told my wife tonight that I can't do it anymore. I think I'm gonna make this leap of faith.

[@robwhite2282]

I’m 49 & jumping in full steam after 25 yrs in IT. Thx Kelsey!

[@01AnthraciteXJR]

Good luck!

[@htos1av]

Funny as that's my gig for the last 30 years as well. A+, N+, JAVA,C++

[@photon1832]

Interesting. I'm going into IT but becoming a pilot is a very very close backup plan if IT doesn't go well for me.

[@MellowCat168]

Same here! Pretty soon there will be an IT shortage. Lol

[@diabzy11]

Same here, 49 and starting a PPL next month.

[@kingcoreyair]

I don't want to go into detail because it would be too long but if anyone needs a bit of inspiration. I drove 18 wheelers for 15yrs from 25-40yrs old and saved a heap of money. I used that money to fulfill my dream of becoming a pilot and got my PPL when I was 40... Bought a 1979 Rockwell Commander 114 with a 260hp Lycoming and flew the dogshit out of it for over 700hrs within the next 3yrs all while equally advancing in my flight training ... Fast forward 3yrs to 43 and I had my Instr, comm, multi, turbine.. I'm 45 and a corporate Lear 35 pilot. If I can do it, so can you!

[@kingcoreyair]

@@74gear I live in Miami.. I've flown my Commander all over Florida, as well as to California, Las Vegas, New York, Oshkosh twice, Sun n Fun, Florida Keys and The Bahamas very frequently. Got PPL in a 172 (w/hp/complex endsmt) Did Instr in Piper Arrow. Comm single/multi in a Piper Arrow, V-tail Bonanza & Piper Seminole. Turbine Jet Transition in 737-800 NG Sim.

[@piperpilot26]

Retireing at 65 is really only for the airlines. I've met tons of pilots over the age of 65 flying for fractionals such as NetJets and Wheels up. There are plenty of jobs for pilots over the age of 65, so consider that as well.

[@Tranefine]

As long as you pass the medical tests, why not? However, one must not forget that there may be certain airlines that are not so strict with the medicals. With increasing age, a person's cognitive abilities decrease significantly, which many people forget or do not want to accept. In my opinion, in such a case, the decision to stop should be given a higher weight than the desire to continue flying.

[@rtwg605]

Just what i needed to hear! I only want to fly bush planes in Africa, anyway!

[@DanknDerpyGamer]

@@Tranefine > With increasing age, a person's cognitive abilities decrease significantly, It's not as simple as a correlation between age and cognitive ability loss. Exercise, diet, health, and genetics come into play too.

[@michaelolson9881]

@@DanknDerpyGamer Is that up to the doctor for the FAA physical?

[@davidbakerscuba]

I’m 50 years old and I have 55 hours now working towards my PPL. I’m about to retire from a 25 year career as a first responder here in Florida. I’m looking to do a second career in aviation. I might not have a ton of time left but it has definitely been a dream of mine.

[@williegonzalez6233]

I DID IT AT 56...GOT MY COMM/INSTRUMENT/CFI..ITS THE WAY TO GO,FOR OLD TIMERS..(I LOVE TO SLEEP IN MY OWN BED AT NIGHT).I FORGOT TO MENTION..I RETIRED FROM THE USPS WITH 33 YEARS...WHEN YOU LOVE TO FLY,EVEN A CESSNA 150 DO IT FOR YOU...548 HOURS.

[@flapoverspeed]

WILLIE GONZALEZ I quit flying at 56.

[@MrSmileurena]

Amazing 🙌🏾🙌🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾

[@johnbrandes5678]

I'm 55. Just started ground school last week. Glad I saw you here!

[@YaBoyBaby916]

We can tell youre in your 50s. You type in caps like my dad

[@johnnauer6427]

WILLIE GONZALEZ I just think it'd be cool to know how to fly, I didn't want to do it for the money I'm also 57 years

[@andyupnorth9815]

Hey Kelsey, I have just spent the last 2 years training and last week I started working as a flight instructor. I’m 45 and have 20 years in law enforcement behind me. I have 20 years of flying ahead, and feel like I have been given a second chance to do what I dreamed of as a child. I have NO regrets. Money isn’t everything.

[@bravocharlie24]

I’m law enforcement as well, but my dream has always been to be a pilot. I’m currently 29 and just started my PPL. It’s never too late to start!

[@JustRememberWhoYoureWorkingFor]

@@bravocharlie24 29 is still young

[@ybagus81]

@@JustRememberWhoYoureWorkingFor is it?

[@JustRememberWhoYoureWorkingFor]

@@ybagus81 yes, it is

[@StevenLeoKorell]

I'm 38, just left my job of 14 years in oil and gas (which I hated) to pursue my dream. I solo next week in a Piper Warrior. The smile I walk around with after landing that thing tells me this was absolutely the right decision. No regrets for me in 20 years.

[@thepenmen22]

How was it, did you make it in the aviation industry?

[@StevenLeoKorell]

I bought a '61 Piper Colt, sold it and bought a '67 Piper Cherokee. I never went to the regionals, but I've found a lot of enjoyment in flying people around for date nights, pilot on demand, gender reveals, or parts for business owners, etc. Still working on ratings. Didn't want to turn my new passion into a grind.

[@thepenmen22]

@@StevenLeoKorell Glad to hear you enjoyed the journey! Thanks for the update!

[@brinjal1371]

Congratulations Stevens. How can I contact you?

[@brinjal1371]

​​@@StevenLeoKorellhow can I reach you?

[@Archonch]

So I saw this video a few years ago and I must say it was a deciding factor. I've done all the planning, burrowing and saving and TODAY I signed a training contract at the age of 31! 🙂 Wish me luck my friends!

[@thejourneyofjonah]

Update ?

[@fullmastrinio]

Any update?

[@theccieguy]

Update?

[@tungvlog1465]

That's the age I am planning to do. Best of luck, pilot!

[@bassandre27]

any update?

[@gorgly123]

My flight instructor got hired by Horizon Air and he was 60.

[@benavraham4397]

I thought of flying when I was 22, but was afraid to spend the money. I thoght I would forget it. 40 years later, I know it never goes away. SOME PEOPLE MUST FLY ! If it's in you, do it!

[@scottfranco1962]

I am 62, but have about 1000 hours of flight time. I have a wonderful airline career waiting... As a baggage handler.

[@sce2aux464]

Dispatch certification. Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to spend six weeks.

[@lytnin88]

I bet, at 62, you have a lot of baggage in your life to handle.

[@scottfranco1962]

@@lytnin88 Like two ex-wives...

[@danwilson7581]

Ha! I have thousands of hours as a ramp tramp in my past!

[@ICanDoItMyself]

I recently turned 35 and have been driving a tow truck since I was 22, but I'm over it and it's time for a big change. One of my concerns/challenges are my obligations (mortgage, truck payment, other bills, etc). It's scary, but I'm excited. This is the first aviation channel I've subscribed to. Lots of great info so far.

[@nlandman1]

Great video Kelsey! I'm 39, work in IT and jumping ship to aviation. Got my PPL about 12 years ago, my IFR about 2.5 years ago, commercial earlier this year and my CFI last month. Leaving my job in another month to instruct full time and build another 1000 to get me in the air for good :)

[@Valy18]

Cool. 31 working in IT and going trough ATPL training.

[@areyoureyesstillblue]

Landman is the perfect name for a pilot!

[@unnamedchannel1237]

Bummer dude with Covid would have hit not long after your changed.

[@TheXennner]

I’m in IT and I’m considering flying, maybe won’t be hardcore into commercial flying but will be sort of balancing the two. I’ve been in IT for 20 years now so I’ve gone into Consulting mode, and I’m just going to take up flying cos it was what I wanted to do when I was poor and helpless. I am not a passenger flight guy so just like Kels I want to fly freighters..

[@mikeoneill8665]

I'm 61 and I....aww hell, I'm off to the bar lolz! I'm an old pilot not a bold pilot...blue skies to all that want to go for it.

[@GopherBaroque61]

I know that I'm too old. 4 years isn't worth the investment. I am, however, an enthusiast and I can be that for the rest of my life.

[@Arthur_Hastings]

And you can setup your own realistic home flight simulator in this day and age! 😃

[@flywithme7843]

You can also still get a pilots license. Fly your own airplane :)

[@ImGumbyDangit]

I'm in the same boat. Retired military avionics tech.

[@jeffstillwell6802]

Instructing can be very rewarding for some people. No age limit...

[@blubb9004]

Join a club, fly glider planes. They are incredible, try it out!

[@davidktimothy]

Just what I needed to hear! Flying has always been a long time dream of mine and when I had the resources to accomplish it, I made it happen! I'm now 46 and flying on and off for a few years. I just have a couple more years left with the FDNY and I'm also starting my flight instructor so I can hopefully soon make that transition. You made me feel a lot better about my career change decision! Thank you!

[@originalpatrick6600]

I'm 13 I cought the aviation bug about a year ago my family took me to the airforce museum I fell in love with planes. I love ur videos keep them coming👍

[@chrisdominguez7244]

If u haven't yet, research the Civil Air Patrol, for a Unit near you. Great program for youth.

[@originalpatrick6600]

@@chrisdominguez7244 really? never heard of them I'll look into it

[@rustydomino694]

I've been in CAP for a year now, it's really been a great program so far especially if you are considering joining the military.

[@Kalwdee]

Good stuff

[@rustydomino694]

@@GermanAviation The 182T is pretty fun.

[@Mahlvhis]

I got my PPL license in '93, so 25 years ago. But life took another direction. End of last year I decided it was time to come back to aviation. So here I am in 2018, 47yo and about to get my CPL with IFR and Multi ratings. I have never let ppl tell me I was too old for aviation. If it works (and it will) I will be extremely happy, if it doesn't, I know at least I tried, instead of regreting I have not.

[@jshepard152]

Good luck.

[@JulioGarcia-ld3ot]

I can feel you determination, I'm pretty sure you're gonna make it!

[@rtwg605]

You & me, brother!

[@mdrobc13]

Am now 50 y/o started my PPL when I was 49 y/o...just solo'd and have about 30+ hrs so far in since I did ground school last year. Weather forgiving should have my PPL by this summer! :) Always my dream since I was a kid. Oh yeah am a military flight surgeon with 1500+ hrs of flying on the job so figured it was time! May not make it to commercial flying but that wasn't the plan anyway! Thanks for the video

[@tahntalus]

Did you get your commercial? Whats the update?

[@AirKaos]

Love your videos man! I'm 22 and just graduated with a Health sciences pre med degree ,but almost spent the rest of my life going to med school and becoming a doctor, until I realized that it was my parent's dream and not my own. Starting flight school this January hopefully!

[@Brandon_Cain]

It’s been 3 years did you finish flight school and make it to the regionals or even major airlines?

[@AirKaos]

@@Brandon_Cain wow! It has been 3 years! I accepted a job offer with a regional airline and have a class date in January! Flight school at ATP was tough, but got through it with my CFI, CFII, and MEI. Built my hours in a 310 flying for a survey company for a year and a half. Have over 140 airports in my logbook. Had an absolutely incredible experience, but now it’s time to move to an airline. Thanks so much for asking. Was really cool to come back to this comment.

[@Brandon_Cain]

@@AirKaos that’s amazing and congratulations on making it to a regional airline I hear they pay almost 2-4 times as much as they did 3 years ago depending on which one you choose. I’m thinking about going through ATP’s 7 month program but it’s expensive so I’m considering my options but maybe in 3-5 years I’ll be at the regionals with you if you’re not already at a major airline by then 👨‍✈️

[@AirKaos]

@@Brandon_Cain that’s exciting stuff man! If you want my advice, bite the bullet and take out the loan sooner that later. You can’t buy back time. I wish you the best of luck in your journey! I’m sure you’ll be successful

[@Brandon_Cain]

@@AirKaos thanks I think you’re right it’s probably best to try and see if i can get the 90k loan and just get all the training out of the way as soon as possible

[@sparkymikey25]

Thanks Kelsey, love you brother! Starting at 28 thinking I was old but you and these commenters got my back! Love when you call us crew and your saying at the end!

[@krispaul2939]

Wow this channel is awesome! I'm danish and 41 years old. Wanted to be a pilot as a kid but it was impossible to pay for in Denmark..still is, so I gave up that dream early on. Moved to Brazil 3 years ago and as I was sitting in Rio airport Santos Dumont one day I saw a pilot exiting a gate, and then it hit me!! Why am I not a pilot?? Imagine my surprise when I found out it is much cheaper here than Denmark! I am finishing up my PPL these days and have already started on the theoretic part of the CPL, all in Portuguese obviously....but I am on my way!

[@krispaul2939]

Thank you so much Kelsey, very helpful indeed! keep'em coming :-)

[@krispaul2939]

Obrigado@Cleber Oliveira, só falto fazer o ultimo voo de navegação e o check ride para concluir PPL:-) Depois vou prosseguir com CPL

[@krispaul2939]

Serio? qual é o valor de um pacote com 70 horas num cessna 152 la?

[@redsloane879]

Yay!! Awesome!!

[@krispaul2939]

@Cleber Oliveira Vou dar uma olhada, vale a pena né. Estuda em qual escola?

[@charlesoxley7242]

Hey Kelsey, I'm a young 51 years old, and have decided to pursue an aviation career......as soon as I can figure out how to finance it. I'm not too worried about mandatory retirement at age 65, since I will still be able to fly for a part 135 carrier afterwards.

[@tonyramirez4915]

Hey. Good luck to you. I just turned 49. I am trying to figure out how to pay for training as well.

[@braddallan]

Thanks for the info mate. Turning 38 with an unused CPL and looking to make the jump to an aviation career. Cheers from Australia and have a great 2019

[@Shultzcool]

I’m 39 and I was feeling like I was probably too old to even CONSIDER this. This video was very encouraging. Kelsey, just recently found your channel. Great work!

[@kevinmatthews1821]

Brilliant Kelsey, You have literally helped me know that im making the correct decision, im 34 in a few days and decided well time is going by and I don't want to come to the retirement age and regret never doing it, im in a lucky position that my partner is 110% behind me, we both work full time, so i will be doing my career the modular way to keep working and pay for it as i progress. But thankyou for this video, its just what i needed to see.

[@CSchaef02]

35 year old here and I have my ATP admissions flight in a couple weeks. I’m doing the career pilot program, so it’ll be a wild couple months coming up in 2023. Thanks for the extra encouragement!

[@charlesoxley7242]

Congratulations! Sounds like you have a nice long career ahead of you.

[@basketballgod5947]

I'm 35 first time on a plane last week. Now I'm hooked. And your vids help me out alot. That's keep up the great work.

[@johnbrandes5678]

Kelsey, I'm 55, been watching you for about a month and three days ago spotted an ad for ground school at the Air & Space museum in San Diego. Sometimes were pointed in the right direction. Thanks Kelsey!

[@paladisious]

Meanwhile in 2020... Me: "Oh wow this is really inspiring, I should give this a shot." Coronavirus: "I'm about to end this man's whole career."

[@manueloctaviomartinez3173]

No excuses m8. I am starting flight in a day or two with this crap going on. Wish u best of luck

[@rilmar2137]

My dentist's son is doing his flight school atm (I can't remember what type rating he's doing but I think it might be a 737), I was talking with my dad about it (he doesn't work in aviation but he used to be a sailor and I guess there might be some similarities between both industries) and actually it's not that stupid. Many airlines would rather hire new pilots than bring back those with more seniority. It's simply cheaper that way

[@sophieacapella]

"Did I do the teasing ? Maybe!" 🤣🤣

[@werrieshorne6929]

I love your answers. Also your practical approach to questions most don't wven try to answer. Thanks.

[@JonPadfield]

@74 Gear - binge watching your vids and loving them. I'm 39 and having this exact thought - this video has helped me a lot.

[@aviatortrucker6198]

98% of your decision to be an airline pilot can answered in one simple question. “Can I pass a FAA Class One Physical” without restrictions and every six months? I am a commercial, single/multi engine instrument pilot with almost 760 hours total flight time. However, at almost age 57 it is harder each year to meet the guidelines for a class two. I nearly squeak by a class 3 so all I do at this point is enjoy being an over qualified private pilot. Forget about ever meeting a class 1 physical minimum standard. Generally if you take certain meds or add meds from the previous physical and it reaches that grey area in the medical examiner’s book, you virtually have to be approved by the FAA flight surgeon and that can take months. By the way, if approved, it become retroactive to your physical date, not restarted on the approval date. Therefore, by the time you get approved you may need another physical soon. So if you had a class 2 in January 2019 and takes 8 months ( August 2019) to be cleared by the FAA, it will only be good for four months then you need to get another class 2 by the end of the month of January 2020. That can get expensive! This also hurts many CFI’s as they can only teach ground school at this time while waiting for FAA clearance of their medical. They are officially “grounded.” By the way, most CFI’s don’t earn enough to support themselves or a family without another job.

[@RustyOpel]

I'd thought about giving up being a mechanic and going into truck driving but once I started diving into the requirements for the physical (I'm 57, on BP meds and enjoy my beer after I get home) it seemed like it might be even harder for me to pass than a flight physical so I guess neither is an optional career path.

[@steveb7433]

Hi Kelsey! Thank you for this video. I am 49, 50 in Nov 2020 and thinking of going to flight school after a marriage split. I am an electrical engineer, but my heart is with aviation. I have been double guessing myself if I am doing the right thing changing careers. I lost my e/engineering job due to C-19, so thought after my marriage split and C-19 that this may be a good time to do that I am REALLY interested in. Awesome and thought provoking video, thank you again! - Steve, Auckland, New Zealand!

[@FlyWithDady]

Okay you’re just the best pilot on KZbin i swear I’m glad that i discovered your channel thank you so much for your time and effort making this videos 🙏

[@74gear]

really happy to hear you like the channel thanks for subscribing and being part of the 74 Crew!

[@bio10155]

Kelsey - I'm turning 39 next year and want to just change it all around. I'm not committed to anything so I have nothing to loose - apart from not attempting it. I'm glad to hear your inspiration to us 'oldies' who want to start a career in the aviation industry.

[@bukchoiii]

30 and going through the process. Just finished the physical. If it all works out the airline will be paying for my flight school and flight hours. In 2 years I'll be fully licensed. With a year of conscription in the country.

[@alejandrorey7516]

I wish you all the best and God bless you all , don’t look back Go for it!! It’s going to be worth it!!

[@liangchristina7919]

Alejandro Rey thank you thank you

[@jesusmojica4288]

47 this totally motivated me I'm a retired Marine of 23 years

[@chikensrule]

I'm 37 and going for it as well. Your videos are very helpful and very inspiring. Thank you for your videos. I have learned a lot just from your channel.

[@saeedag4468]

“There is freedom waiting for you, On the breezes of the sky, And you ask "What if I fall?" Oh but my darling, What if you fly?” ― Erin Hanson

[@battyjoe]

I started at flight school at 34. I was lucky and am now a 777 skipper for a major. It worked for me but it could have easily gone the other way.

[@liangchristina7919]

battyjoe good on you. Any advice for people age 34 now?

[@aka_izzy]

I’m turning 34 next month and thinking about jumping in. Glad to know it is possible!

[@liangchristina7919]

AKA Izzy you go!!! Izzy!

[@izzyman556]

@@liangchristina7919 I read this and said, why she talking to me lol

[@youbastrds231]

I’m 34 now and want to make a career change. I currently drive trucks across country now.

[@Also_Ran]

I’m 52 and just scheduled my discovery flight yesterday. More of a bucket list item than a career move, just something I’ve always dreamed of and now have the resources to do it.

[@aeroengguy448]

You're never too old. Not for a career change, but I got my helicopter rating at age 70, and I'm having a ball.

[@bigj259]

Im 31 and starting flight school full time in January

[@mohamedibrahim-zg8sm]

J Mit how did it go so far ?

[@markdav90]

Im 29 and im currently getting my Commercial licence.

[@afrini]

How has it been let us know

[@Cblizy]

Yeah so update us my guy.

[@Xlr8t]

14 and I’m not sure if I’m too old to switch

[@01AnthraciteXJR]

Great vid, I like all the new channels sprouting up with this kind of insight. I'm 20 and started my PPL a few months ago while going to college full time. I hope to make it to the airlines in the next couple of years, as well as getting my Bachelors degree so I can be even more desirable to the regionals.

[@01AnthraciteXJR]

@@74gear Will do. I like being positive and encouraging because that kind of attitude in the aviation community convinced me to go and take a discovery flight.

[@JimsEquipmentShed]

Good for you! Its nice to see a younger person with some solid direction in life. Charge on!

[@Stankinator911]

You sound a lot like me four years ago. I got my license when I was 20 and I've been steadily putting on hours since. I've worked in IT for the last two years and am about to get my instrument rating; I'm hoping to make 2019 my year, as that, commercial, and CFI are all within reach. I'm hoping to start flying for a living sometime in the next five years. Working for a living sucks!

[@monterosport140]

Good video kelsey! I will be liquidating my land asset pretty soon and this video you made has given me the idea to pursue aviation career even when I'm in my early 40s already.

[@kickstand2438]

I'm a 59 yr old private pilot, work for one of the major aircraft manufactures, and I might just give this a shot for the fun of it. Was going to wait a few years to retire, but flying even for the regionals would be a blast and there is at least some talk of extending the age to 67.

[@brandonwhorley674]

Dude. Love these videos.

[@brandonwhorley674]

@@74gear they are awesome. Maverick and Goose high 5 was perfect.

[@dubliners0999]

"Now, did he get teased a little bit in class?" "Yeah." "Did I do the teasing?" "Yeah."

[@jnewmy14]

I found your channel today and have watched many of your videos, they are great. I'm 38 and have wanted to become a pilot as long as I can remember. I came close a couple times to pulling thye trigger and a couple days ago my wife and I decided now was the time to make it happen. Finally saved enough to pay for it so I can make it happen. This video fit perfectly into my scenario and solidified my decision. Thanks for what you do, keep it up, your doing awesome and providing great content for us aspiring pilots!

[@74gear]

Happy to do it Josh, thanks for watching and subscribing! Welcome to the 74 Crew!

[@flyfishin98]

Started my bachelors in aviation this last spring working toward my professional pilot and I’m 40. Excited for this journey!

[@KutWrite]

Re: Mark Twain quote: I got into Naval Aviation training in the 70s. Things got tough as Vietnam was winding down. I took the option to go to sea. I started an import-export business while in Taiwan. I had a chance to go back to Flight School, but opted to get out of the Navy and pursue my business. The business tanked with the post-Vietnam economy slump, I took an 8-5 job & bounced around for a long time. I used the GI Bill to get a commercial-instrument-helicopter rating. Used the helo rating for a bit, but things were still slow, so I went back to "a job." I was able to retire OK, but... Yes, many regrets for not going back to complete flight training.

[@maxbootstrap7397]

Forget career change ... fly for fun. Then buy a small airplane and register as a [self-powered] glider. Quite a few modern airplanes that get registered as [self-powered] glider are actually fully functional airplanes that the pilots often never fly as a glider, but instead fly as a regular old airplane ... talking about 180mph here, not 30mph. And guess what, to be a glider pilot you don't ever need to get physicals (like all other pilots do). Yet, you can fly 180mph and fly 2500 miles non-stop from California to Hawaii if you want to. Yup, it is a loophole, but what's wrong with that? Screw being an airline pilot. Fly small airplanes for fun... until you're so old you go blind or so frail you can't drag your butt into the pilot seat any more.

[@robertweller9533]

max bootstrap can you fly passengers?

[@BunkerMountain]

Not a pilot but find this channel very interesting! Keep it up man! This channel is going to blow up fast!

[@milliefalitawerz5924]

Thank you. You answered all the questions of wanting a career change into aviation.

[@billwaliaula1512]

You do answer some big boy questions on this channel ! Like it! Am 39, 215hrs in , bachelors in physics.moved to the USA, for that single reason. To be an airline pilot.My parents in Africa could not afford flight school, I knew I was academically gifted though, came to the US 10yrs ago got a nursing degree to pay for flight school. Now am making 6 figures, put my wife through school, raising my kids, when I hit those low paying regionals, will have no Mortgage, paid off house , no debt whatsoever and can live on the meager regional pay. The older you get , the more financial planning you need, if you do it well, like you said it.. you might not have missed much. Maybe it turns out you might enjoy flying not because you have to...but you want to. And in case you don’t like the lifestyle and crazy schedules you may walk away with no regrets and sleep soundly in financial peace.

[@UTarcher72]

Ive talked to a few regional pilots and you don't have to earn terrible wages for very long. Depending on how much you fly and picking up other trips, I've heard of some getting close to 100k by their 2nd and 3rd year.

[@paulinoserrano4]

I’am 51 and just finished the VFR instruction, so I hope to finish my ATPL before I get 52! But I gone do it!

[@1noetic]

Any update?

[@mikerow358]

Thanks Kelsey. At 40, I've just started CPL, I gave up on a childhood dream of getting into aviation in my early 20s due to 'life getting in the way'. Some days I doubt myself in pushing forward with the work I need to do to earn CPL, and question if I really should be letting myself follow a dream. But reading the quote you cited from Mark Twain really hit home for me, and hearing your arguments for critically thinking the decision through pretty much mimicked my line of thinking in making my decision, so it's given me added confidence to keep pushing myself forward. Thanks again, and love your channel btw, keep up the great work!

[@72Bluemax]

Thanks. Makes me feel better. Going for it.

[@AmusementForce]

Dear Pilot, I would like to see a video on determining the safest seats on an aircraft, and why, and what kind of circumstances can cause deaths on certain seats (near engine window) etc. and what are the chances for those to occur. Thank you in advance.

[@smallbluemachine]

Your best bet is the back six rows. There's a reason the black box is back there. -Good luck!

[@alanhinkel4670]

Sit in the back. You’ll live .04111801 seconds longer than the people in the front.

[@owenklein1917]

Sit in the seat that has the best view. Choosing seats based on what is safest is very stupid and pointless. That’s like stocking up on food preparing for a zombie apocalypse. It’s never gonna happen. Especially if you live in the us, where it’s been over a decade since there was a fatal plane crash. You have a 1 in 11 million chance and that’s globally where in under developed nations, there are unsafe airlines. In developed nations, the odds are likely in the billions.

[@drewbaum]

62-19=43 YIPPIEEE 🤩 Taking my first flight lesson this week!! Hopefully in 6-9 months I’ll have my private then I’ll be applying to ATP Flight School!! 👍🏼

[@IWU447]

@Hal 9000 at first*

[@Robert-ml5uc]

I became an airline pilot at age 49. I am nearly 53 now. I fly an Embraer 175 and previously flew the CRJ 200-700-900. I work 10 days monthly by choice and am based at LAX, an hour south of my home. I wrote, "How To Become An Airline Pilot: Achieve Your Dream Without Going Broke" and "A Day In The Life Of An Airline Pilot." Yes, the pilot shortage is real. Go for it! I used to work in law enforcement and am happy I made the change. It is never too late. See you in the skies!

[@74gear]

thanks for watching Robert, ya I made a video on the pilot shortage, glad you are living your dream!

[@darrenfoley2930]

I did my first PPL lesson at a part 61 school in Nov ‘17 at aged 45 and now have my CFI checkride next month. Unfortunately too far down the road in my primary career to turn back and pursue an airline career but very excited that I will hopefully soon be teaching future airline pilots on the weekends.

[@kentcolgan6139]

I’m a 58 yo mechanical engineer and 16 hours into my PPL training - for fun, not a career change. Thanks for the great videos!

[@kentcolgan6139]

@@74gear Thanks for the encouragement and link!

[@RollTide8569]

You will think different after a few more hours probably. I did at least.

[@kentcolgan6139]

@@RollTide8569 do you mean fun part, or the no career part?

[@RollTide8569]

@@kentcolgan6139 the no career part because it's obviously hella fun! You might be set on a career path, but I don't have one and fell in love with flying. I think it would be cool to be a pilot!

[@dwh548]

I’m 45 and I just passed my First Class medical. I’ve decided that now is the best and last chance to make my flying career come to fruition. I know time is kind of a factor so I have been making plans to attend an accelerated part 141. I was wondering if you had any thoughts on ATP or the like, and if you know of any alternatives to ATP. The timeline and locations sound perfect but I’m just wondering if there is a better deal to be had.

[@ajonesmem]

Derek there is a 46-47yo guy on here attending ATP and talks all it, he seems to like it. Channel is listed as Ed Creed, check him out.

[@DrKniz]

Thank you I needed to see this.

[@planes1mple296]

Very reassuring. Amazing video as always, Kelsy. I'm 31 and currently prepping for the entrance exam for cadet program by Indigo and CAE. Changing your career does require some soul searching but after watching this video, I'm really optimistic. Thanks again! 😊

[@planes1mple296]

@@74gear Thanks a bunch for your kind words and help, Kelsy. ☺️🙏 So far, I've been studying the ebook on navigation and the occasional simulation on X-Plane 11. My main focus right now is on the multiple choice question test (16 objective questions of Physics, Math and English each). I have noticed that the aviation community is fraught with positive and proactive people who are always ready to help. Thanks again and yes, I'm sure I'll have tons of questions. I'll post them here and I'm also following you on Instagram. :) Fly high, sir.

[@Therion0184]

I'm 30 and goin for it. I have been working in aviation but not as a pilot. Think I still have plenty of time left to get the majors and have a decently fruitful career.

[@Therion0184]

@@74gear Thanks, I'll check it out. I already just about have my private.

[@UTarcher72]

You're a youngster. Nothing to worry about at 30.

[@simplyshredded007]

First 👌🙌🏽

[@Zak-nv1tl]

Keep up the great work! These videos are incredibly informative.

[@omdcarsandairplanes]

Thank you for this inspiring video man! I'm 34 and on my PPL stage and going for it!

[@JA-rk9cg]

I am willing to fly for the crappiest airline on the crappiest routes for the crappiest salary just as long as I get to fly. All I want to do is fly but I don’t have money for training. If they have a shortage of pilots then they need to invest in training guys like me who will work hard for them!

[@keyworksales6241]

Just get a loan, dude. They qualify as student loans and are deferred until you're a commercial pilot with a job. Even after that, it's just a minimum payment.

[@jarodstrain8905]

Some of the big carriers like Delta actually have their own flight Academies. If you can get into one of those, it guarantees you a job with their company. But they can be really picky about who they let in. The downside to these programs is if you wash out you still owe them the cost of training. I have a few younger friends that went through these programs. They give me a bad time and say I should have gone with them. You get a little more conservative with your job decisions when your family counts on you, I've told them.

[@baylinrichardson8315]

Great videos. 10 years ago when I looked into getting into commercial it seem most airlines required a 4yr degree. Is this still the case?

[@joanbaczek2575]

Yes

[@AMASON_AVIATION]

Thank you, this video really helped with my decision to change careers.

[@kyleesquibel2604]

You’re videos are awesome! Keep making more!! I’m currently getting my PPL. I’m an Army officer but I am definitely set on making a career transition to being a professional pilot! Again thanks for making these vids!

[@DustyCowdog]

40 isn't old. It was when I was 40. But now I'm 58 -- now that's old 😂

[@johnmangiameli]

DustyCowdog ah well put

[@mktsmith62]

I feel this all too well. Turning 58 myself and remember thinking how old 50 was. I'm hoping 70 isn't as bad as I imagine because it seems to be coming on much faster than 50 did.

[@walkeren]

i'm 59. shuddup!!

[@DustyCowdog]

@@walkeren Hahaha... I just turned 60 today! Cheers!

[@b.bhandari5673]

I have a doubt on one thing while landing an airplane the nose pitch is higher than rest of the body and back wheel touch before the front Right? So I guess in that position plane should go above rather than coming down, but how plane descend and land on that position?

[@ChewTube77]

And this has what to do with age when starting an aviation career Bhuban?

[@bharris4234]

Thank you so much for your inspiring videos! I am going on 38, and will begin my flight training in two weeks!

[@theflyingguy7279]

Love this! I'm 40, been a full time DJ and kids entertainer for 20 years (and in July I started flying) - and went Solo on Monday - Kelsey, you have answered a load of questions thank you :))

[@theflyingguy7279]

@@74gear already watching that one :))your videos are awesome - thanks so much :)))

[@BillyNoMates1974]

I was wondering if Ex-military pilots or glider pilots make better commercial pilots even if we discount their experience before becoming a commercial pilot. thinking of the hudson river issue

[@SuperEddietv]

Key statement at an older age..."RETURN ON INVESTMENT"!

[@jshepard152]

Yes, very smart.

[@vsabadazh]

Another IT guy here, in my late 20s. Guys, I am reading your comments about your careers, and becoming more and more motivated to get started. I never thought of driving these beautiful machines until I was 27. Now it’s not just a dream for me, it’s quite a goal to save enough money for a CPL course in the EU. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@cloud-9services202]

Thanks for another great video and the motivation to keep at my dreams of flying commercially!

[@michael-ju8tv]

I am just over 40, I have CPL and ~500 hours, but my time is from ~10 years ago. I had cfi/cfii too but they obviously expired. I didn't enjoy instructing at all and at the time there was nothing else available, so I went back to IT (my current job). Do you think this background could create a non-instructor opportunity leading to an airline job somewhere?

[@01AnthraciteXJR]

You can always fly for a small carrier in Alaska or Hawaii. They hire people with around 500 hours all the time. I would get some recurrency training done though, in order to shake the dust off of your flying skills.

[@lonestarhog7407]

I did my flight training in the early 80s and flew for many years as a Command Pilot with CAP flying SARs. That being said, I used your formula to decide what to do. It does not appear to work for me. 62-72=-10 What am I not understanding or doing wrong? ;)

[@skorpius752]

There do seem to be a lot of little boys with big dreams in aviation. I would love to fly a 747 but I am not willing to deal with passengers, airports, no sleep, crap pay and high loan payments for the first 15 years, etc, etc, etc. Crash pads. Extended stays in the asshole of the world, etc, etc. Yeah buddy, that sounds like fun. Sign me up!

[@MrBrandqq]

you guys are so encouraging

[@leftyzappa]

I'm glad I found this video. thank you Captain!

[@TheGreenCouncil]

I’m 25 and I feel like I’m too old

[@mbekka1]

30 and 40 is old ??!!! Smh... it’s never too late to do anything,, I know an ex FBI agent he went to medical school at age 52 and he made it and he’s now a professional ER doc and he never regretted it and a successful doctor,,, and a pilot is way easier than being a doctor lol

[@RVGhostRider]

Great video and great quote! So many people choose the safe harbor and lead a boring life. I started with U.S.Airways 12 years ago and my next door neighbor was/is an Airbus pilot (no pressure lol). I SERIOUSLY considered it at 45 but ironically, my dream is to sail around the world. So the quote was perfect!

[@NoName-zn1sb]

So 76 is right out, then.

[@abdullaalturabi6526]

looool

[@jimmyzhao2673]

Find out if you need a license for an ultralight or glider? then go for it !

[@motorTranz]

If someone is 40 they have to have a fire in the belly about this.

[@johndee653]

You have to have a fire in your belly to do any worthwhile professional career at any age--pilot, doctor, lawyer, nurse, clergy, professor, military, etc. In other words, if you don't have a fire in your belly it won't work at any age. If you do, just go for it!

[@dondash8921]

Great video. I wanted to be a pilot all my life but could not afford it. I finally got to a point & started weekend flight training but a major life change put a stop to it. Later, I got a good job in a remote area so training was not possible. I was there until I retired. I am very happy with my life but being a pilot would have been cool. My advice to late starters, plan for the future. If you can afford it, go for it. I considered retirement when I was 30 & started to set myself up then in preparation for that. That's where I am today. Never put undue burden on anyone else to support your training. Good luck.

[@coreyjordan2745]

That's cool bro. Very encouraging post / video.

[@Heisrisen237]

Love your videos, thank you for giving some great content.