Airplane Pilot Life Videos:

Here’s a brief list of what Airplane Pilots do:

  • Pre-flight Planning: Reviews flight plans, weather conditions, and aircraft performance data before departure.

  • Aircraft Inspection: Conducts pre-flight inspections to ensure the aircraft is airworthy and all systems are functioning properly.

  • Flight Operations: Operates the aircraft during takeoff, flight, and landing, following precise flight plans and air traffic control instructions.

  • Communication: Communicates with air traffic control (ATC) and cabin crew to coordinate flight activities and ensure safety.

  • Emergency Response: Responds to emergencies or unexpected situations, such as mechanical issues or weather changes, to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

  • Navigation: Navigates the aircraft using instruments and visual references to maintain the correct flight path and altitude.

  • Monitoring Systems: Monitors aircraft systems, instruments, and gauges to ensure proper functioning throughout the flight.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

  1. Educational Requirements:

    • High School Education: Focus on subjects such as mathematics, physics, and geography, which provide a strong foundation for understanding aviation principles.

    • Bachelor’s Degree (Optional): While not always required, many airlines prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field. A degree can enhance your knowledge and competitiveness in the job market.

  2. Obtain a Pilot License:

    • Private Pilot License (PPL): Start by obtaining a PPL through a certified flight school or aviation academy. Requirements for a PPL typically include a minimum number of flight hours (e.g., 40-50 hours), passing a medical exam, and passing a written and practical flight exam.

    • Commercial Pilot License (CPL): After obtaining a PPL, pursue a CPL, which allows you to fly aircraft for compensation or hire. CPL requirements include additional flight hours (e.g., 150-250 hours), more advanced flight training, and passing written and practical exams.

    • Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL): To become an airline pilot, you will need an ATPL, which is the highest level of pilot certification. ATPL requirements include more flight experience (e.g., 1,500-1,500 hours), extensive knowledge of aviation regulations, and passing rigorous written and practical exams.

  3. Flight Training:

    • Flight School or Aviation Academy: Enroll in a reputable flight school or aviation academy accredited by aviation authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the USA, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe, or Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in other countries.

    • Flight Instructor Rating (CFI): Consider obtaining a CFI rating to gain teaching experience and accumulate flight hours while instructing others.

  4. Build Flight Hours:

    • Gain Experience: Build flight hours through various means, including flight instruction, aerial tours, banner towing, aerial surveying, or agricultural flying.

    • Regional Airlines: Many pilots start their career by flying for regional airlines, where they gain experience flying smaller commercial aircraft before progressing to larger jets with major airlines.

  5. Obtain Medical Certification:

    • Pass Medical Exams: Pilots must pass regular medical exams conducted by authorized aviation medical examiners to ensure they meet health and fitness standards required for flying commercial aircraft.

  6. Additional Certifications and Ratings:

    • Instrument Rating: Obtain an instrument rating, which allows you to fly in various weather conditions using only instruments.

    • Multi-Engine Rating: Gain experience and certification to fly multi-engine aircraft, which is typically required for airline pilots.

  7. Networking and Job Search:

    • Network: Join aviation organizations, attend aviation conferences, and participate in pilot forums to network with industry professionals and stay informed about job opportunities.

    • Apply to Airlines: Research and apply to airlines for pilot positions. Airlines often have specific requirements for experience, certifications, and type ratings for different aircraft.

      This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!