Decision Day

I've been in this rut lately where I'm tired of flying the Ambulance. Like most pilots I want to go bigger, better, faster. I'm the most junior pilot here with not much opportunity for advancement. I only get 20 - 25 hours a month with very little, if any Pilot-in-Command time. However, the time that I do get is all turbine. The management here has changed recently as our company has been bought out by non-aviation types looking for an investment opportunity. (enter hysterical laughter here) Although I don't agree with the decisions that they make, it is my job to carry out the policy and fly the mission. Right?

I'm one of those guys who regularly keeps his 'finger on the pulse' of what flying jobs are out there. I make it a habit to frequently visit webs sites, message boards and read trade publications that might advertise my next flying gig. I have laid awake at night praying that God would deliver me from this personal hell that I feel is my job. I have numerous resumes out but the telephone ain't ringing.

So out of the blue, a couple of days ago (ok more than a week) the Mentor offered me a job. I told him I'd get back to him in a week to ten days, as I was leaving the country for some much needed R&R. It gave me time to ponder my options. Althought the job isn't bigger, better, faster, it is actually, smaller, better pay, and slower. I've flown an SUV before, but I never thought that I would return to the cockpit of one. The pay is better; about $8 - 10K per year better. Plus, it would be scheduled flying. No more being tied to the cell phone and beeper. No more getting woken up at 3AM to fly half way across New South Montucky to peel some drunk teens off the road after they rolled their car after prom.

The Chief Pilot here at Diamond doesn't seem to want me or need me for that matter in the charter department, even though there are vacancies that need to be filled.

I guess it is time to write my resignation letter...

Royal Air, here I come!!!