Cargo Pilot Life Videos:

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

  • Pre-flight Preparation: Reviews flight plans, weather conditions, and cargo loading requirements before each flight.

  • Aircraft Inspection: Conducts pre-flight inspections to ensure the aircraft is airworthy and all cargo is properly secured.

  • Cargo Loading and Unloading: Supervises or assists in loading and unloading cargo, ensuring proper distribution and balance within the aircraft.

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

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

  • Communication: Communicates with air traffic control (ATC) and ground personnel to coordinate flight activities and ensure compliance with airspace regulations.

  • Cargo Safety: Ensures the safe transport of cargo, including hazardous materials if applicable, and adheres to all relevant safety regulations and procedures.

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, having a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aerospace engineering, or a related field can enhance your knowledge and competitiveness in the job market, especially for cargo airlines.

  2. Obtain a Pilot License:

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

    • Instrument Rating: Obtain an instrument rating, which allows you to fly in various weather conditions using only instruments. This rating is essential for cargo pilots.

    • Commercial Pilot License (CPL): After obtaining a PPL and instrument rating, pursue a CPL. CPL requirements include additional flight hours (e.g., 150-250 hours), more advanced flight training, and passing 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.

    • Build Flight Hours: Gain flight experience through various means, including flight instruction, aerial tours, banner towing, aerial surveying, or agricultural flying. Aim to accumulate sufficient flight hours to meet the requirements of potential cargo airline employers.

  4. Obtain Medical Certification:

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

  5. Multi-Engine Rating (Recommended):

    • Multi-Engine Rating: Consider obtaining a multi-engine rating, which allows you to fly aircraft with multiple engines. Many cargo aircraft are multi-engine, and having this rating can enhance your employment opportunities.

  6. Networking and Job Search:

    • Network: Join aviation organizations, attend aviation conferences, and participate in pilot forums to network with industry professionals and cargo airline recruiters.

    • Apply to Cargo Airlines: Research and apply to cargo airlines, freight operators, express delivery companies, or logistics providers offering cargo pilot positions. Explore job openings and requirements through company websites, job boards, or professional associations.

      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!