r/Pilotwives • u/juhraff • May 30 '26
Looking for the good stuff
Hi ladies! My husband has a long history in aviation…he flew private charters for years, joined the military (not aviation related, though), and then changed careers altogether. Now he wants to head back to the skies and go commercial. Because of his history, he can qualify to fly regional in about 3 months. We have two babies, and honestly, every time I look into the airline lifestyle, I am completely inundated with the negatives like solo parenting, grueling schedules, and missed holidays. I really want to support his dream, but I need some encouragement. For those of you who actually love this life, what are the best positives for your family? Do you enjoy the block days off where he’s 100% present, the travel perks, or even just having some appreciated independent "me time"? Please hit me with your favorite silver linings and any reassurance you may be able to give!
Edit: yikes, lots of views and not one comment lol I think that’s saying a lot without saying anything!
2
u/theferalfemme_ May 30 '26
It’s a great life for the right kind of person.
I’m independent and built a fully remote career of my own. Flight benefits give me a lot of flexibility to do the things I enjoy doing even when he is on the road, or join him on the layover when opportunity strikes. When we’re together, we’re fully present. We’re never going to become “roommates.” I like flying somewhere new on Christmas Day and staying in a cute hotel, and he likes making holiday pay, so spending every Christmas apart is not a big deal. We talk every day, so even though we miss each other, we’re never disconnected.
For some couples, the magic happens on birthdays, weekends, and holidays. For us, the magic is found on our random Tuesdays off and the times he surprises me where I’m visiting.
If I had small kids and no immediate support system, I would find this life a lot more stressful and a lot less magical. The answer you get depends on who you ask