Fixed Wing  

To my helicopter brethren, 

AkA "Vertolot-chiks" (English phonetic spelling,  in Russian )

Flying helicopters is one of the best flying experiences a young pilot can have. I made my bones in the Army, UH1s and later Blackhawks. As a civilian, Super Puma, variety of Bell products, BK117, even the MI-17, and a demo hour in an S-92  Nothing compares to a Sikorsky, but I digress.

Along the way I got a Fixed wing add on, ATP, CFI/ CFII. Now 15,000 hours about half and half FW/ RW.  Someone on here (years ago) made the comment that a helicopter pilot was "overqualified" after logging 2500 hours. He was correct in some respects. The pay doesn't reflect experience in the helicopter industry. So if you can get a job flying helicopters, youre "qualified" the rest is overkill. 

I used to follow this site religiously, but lost interest in flying helicopters for a living. These days I'm a 64 year old Check Airman for a major Part 135 Fixed Wing operation. Flying 700-800 hours a year. I really enjoy this job, but everytime I see a S-76C++ at Bridgeport (BDR) or landing in the Hamptons (HTO) , I wish I could climb outta my starched wing and do at least one more trip around the pattern before  I retire.

Cant do it.

The pay cut would be high six figures. Not to mention the schedule and other benefits.

I'll admit, I'm still a in it "for the buck" which also comes at a price. The price is, putting on those "golden handcuffs" -- and making too much money to quit and maybe take the lower stress lower paying jobs.. Like flying a seasonal Caravan on floats ( fishing trips) in Alaska, perhaps.

Or "Earning money while sleeping " (EMS) in a quiet little VFR program somewhere. 

The point is, happiness isn't defined strictly by money.
If you like flying helicopters, and can afford it, do it.

Good luck to you guys, and

fly safe!

--Shooting Shark