Original Message

I started flying (via the US Army program) in 1982.  Strictly helicopters, never went the fixed wing route.  I was one of the lucky few who was able to eventually get a really good paying job overseas and finally was able to retire a couple of yes ago.  That required my getting an ATP rating though!  Luckily I spent time at an operator who had a couple of FAA Examiners on staff and allowed me to take the ATP ride as part of my annual recurrent training, which saved nme a lot of $$$.

If I had it to do over again, I'd get my fixed wing ratings and work toward a private jet job.  All the guys I know who went that route were/are happy and loved the job/lifestyle.

That's just me, others may think differently.

Good luck!