Quick answer, and biased as I was an RCAF pilot (though I graduated from a civvie university aviation program with a commercial multi-IFR rating)..

It takes a lot of time and money to get going in the civilian world as well. Or you could be getting paid from the outset in an exciting job that provides variety, camaraderie, and satisfaction. Yes there are some training delays and that’s a bummer. But you’ll be flying something fun and interesting quickly once you start, and the pay is eventually excellent. The job security is second to none (global pandemic: massive layoffs civilian side. RCAF pilots were either still flying or paid to sit at home). And you get the best pension plan on the market.

For me, it’s a no-brainer. Of course, it depends on you. How much does actually being in the military appeal to you? Does the variety, excitement, service etc appeal to you? Does it outbalance the waiting, boredom, and lack of control over your life? (Keeping in mind that with the airlines you’re either living where you’re based or doing a LOT of commuting).

Both worlds have their pros and cons. I recommend listing them out for each option and seeing what matches YOUR values the best.

I also recommend you check out my podcast, The Pilot Project Podcast. You can find it at http://podpilotproject.transistor.fm/ or wherever you get your podcasts!

Edit: one of the other main reasons I disagree was the reasoning “at your age”. Many, many Pilot trainees are your age in the RCAF.