- Nov 26, 2006
- 7,628
- Boat Info
- 2008 44 Sedan Bridge
- Engines
- Cummins QSC-500's
Straight Drives
I'll retire from the military in about 2 years. Then, I'll return to the airlines with 11 years seniority. I used to think I'd retire from that job at age 60. 10 years as a first officer, and 10 years as a Captain.
Since 9/11 we've been set back quite an awful lot. This past year, retirement age was extended to 65 (from mandatory 60). This stagnated progression up to an additional 5 years. They say that for every year an airline pilot works past age 60, he dies two years earlier. That leaves 3 less retirement years per year worked past 60.
Since our retirement benefits were taken in bankruptcy, I'm pretty sure I'll have to work past 60. 10 years first officer, 5 more years military, 10 years Captain? The tough part about leaving early is that you miss out on the highest seniority, highest pay, best schedules of your entire career.
Perhaps I'll be able to work a light schedule in my senior years and delay the point at which I have to start liquidating assets. If I live on a boat, cruise around, and commute to work, I could hang on until, well, 'til I die. That's our new retirement plan - fly 'til you die.
Since 9/11 we've been set back quite an awful lot. This past year, retirement age was extended to 65 (from mandatory 60). This stagnated progression up to an additional 5 years. They say that for every year an airline pilot works past age 60, he dies two years earlier. That leaves 3 less retirement years per year worked past 60.
Since our retirement benefits were taken in bankruptcy, I'm pretty sure I'll have to work past 60. 10 years first officer, 5 more years military, 10 years Captain? The tough part about leaving early is that you miss out on the highest seniority, highest pay, best schedules of your entire career.
Perhaps I'll be able to work a light schedule in my senior years and delay the point at which I have to start liquidating assets. If I live on a boat, cruise around, and commute to work, I could hang on until, well, 'til I die. That's our new retirement plan - fly 'til you die.