How To Have a Career As a Pilot
- December 29, 2009
- 14,446 Views
Contributor
Timothy Jeffrey
Music
Todd Mazierksi
Pilots are stars in a demanding job providing safe passage for legions of people, but there’s a lot more to advancing in this exciting career than you might guess.
You Will Need
- Education
- Good health
- 250 flight hours
- Grace under pressure
- A college degree
Step 1: Take introductory flight
Take a plane ride at a small airport that will let you use the controls. This will help you decide if you like being off the ground and in control of others’ lives.
Step 2: Get training and education
Acquire knowledge of aircraft systems, meteorology, physiology, navigation, regulations, and air traffic control.
Though regional airlines do not require a four-year college degree, all major airlines do.
Step 3: Meet medical requirements
Meet standard medical requirements, including physicals for vision, hearing, and reflexes, as well as conventional checks for blood pressure, hernia, diabetes, neurological, and more.
Step 4: Log hours and get tested
Log at least 250 flight hours for a commercial pilot certificate, awarded after a written test and a “check-ride” with a Federal Aviation Administrator. You must also pass tests for instrument, commercial aviation, multi-engine, and other ratings.
Step 5: Apply for job
Apply for instructor positions and positions at regional or cargo companies.
Both major airlines and corporate jet services pay well and offer superior benefits.
Step 6: Handle the pressure
Prepare for erratic and stressful schedules that may keep you away from home several days at a time.
Step 7: Upgrade qualifications
Accumulate flight hours, attend FAA seminars and courses, and stay abreast of developments in the field through pilot associations and other organizations.
Atlanta is the world’s busiest airport, with an average of 2,400 flights daily.
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Comments (1)
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over 2 years ago by nancywilliams
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