PIC After a LONG Break - Hire Me!

[VWGhiaBob]

It was just 8 months ago that I posted on Facebook...asking my friends, "Should return to aviation after a 41 year break?" Their answer, "Yes!"

Now, I'm in trouble. Given a choice, I'd be up every day. In 1972, I got my PPL at 60 hours and then stopped. Now, in 8 months, I'm at 170 hours and climbing fast. I'm current and checked out in Cherokee, Saratoga, 172, 182, SR20, and SR22.

If anyone told me a year ago I'd be here today, I would have told them they were nuts!

Right around the corner are IFR and Multi.

So what's the dilemma? I'm always happiest when I follow my passions. But I'm wondering...are there ANY career options for a fast-learning, passionate 59 year old pilot?

Seriously. CFI? Ground School (used to be a teacher)? Tour Operator? FBO Owner (have an MBA)?

I don't care much about money, as I've done well over the years.

Any advice out there? (I'm assuming airlines are out, given my age?). Thanks, all!

(For those who are interested, here's an Internet Radio interview with my story - http://www.planeviz.com/flying-again-after-a-40-year-break-bob-eicholz/ )

 

[Jim Logajan]

So what's the dilemma? I'm always happiest when I follow my passions. But I'm wondering...are there ANY career options for a fast-learning, passionate 59 year old pilot?
[...]
I don't care much about money, as I've done well over the years.

If you don't care about the money then I don't see why there should be a dilemma. Continue flying for fun. If you want your flying to have some meaning beyond fun, consider signing up for something like Angel Flight or some other air care group; many listed here:

http://www.aircareall.org/listings.htm

If money is something you don't want to admit is causing a dilemma, consider some oddball commercial gigs; one website that covers such things:

http://oddballpilot.com/