[throw1234651234]

I don't understand "pilot" as dream job. You basically take off and land once you hit commercial.

I get the learning part - the first time you learn how redundant and simple Cessna engines are, the first time you realize how light and simple it really is, how to tie it down, your first time trying to fly with instruments only, your first crosswind landing, etc. But after that? Really seems like "just a job".

Btw, not a pilot in any sense, just took some very discounted classes.

[leetrout]

There are some really good corporate pilot gigs flying business jets (or event just turbo props) and back country flying in the pacific northwest of the US. Bush flying in remote areas... firefighting flying as someone else mentioned. Ag pilot is also pretty awesome on video but the exposure to chemicals is concerning. There are a lot interesting piloting jobs other than commercial. But even with "just" commercial at the majors the travel and salary is amazing (after a lot of crappy pay at regional outfits).

[throw1234651234]

I thought all the "amazing" pilot jobs were gone now that all the airlines are saving money and it's pretty much ~100k. I am pulling that number out of my ____, but my understanding was that it's a good job, but not FAANG / med school "good" in terms of salary, with rare unicorn exceptions, i.e. private rotary in Dubai or something.

[leetrout]

Could be. Couple quick googles with glassdoor data...

Pilot salaries at FedEx can range from $108,918 - $377,643

The typical Delta Air Lines Captain salary is $279,152. Captain salaries at Delta Air Lines can range from $97,342 - $443,133