In 2024, Metro Aviation added fixed-wing aircraft to its fleet with the creation of Metro Gulf. Metro Aviation operates three MRO facilities in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, Lafayette, Louisiana, and its headquarters in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Metro Aviation Mission Statement

“To provide the safest and highest quality aircraft operations, completions, and maintenance so that our customers can safely and effectively accomplish their mission profile, our employees can exercise their talents and maximize their potential, and the company can ensure its financial stability.”

Metro Aviation Openings on FindaPilot.com

• Helicopter Air Ambulance Pilot in Marysville, OH
• Helicopter Air Ambulance Pilot in Quitman, TX
• Helicopter Air Ambulance Pilot in Pomeroy, OH
• Helicopter Air Ambulance Pilot in Lake Charles, LA

More Metro Aviation Resources:

• Career site 
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Twitter (X)
• Instagram

More Help from FindaPilot.com

• Latest pilot job openings 
• Pilot directory 
• Sign-up page

The post Employer Profile: Metro Aviation appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The job of an air traffic controller (ATC) is a challenging and oftentimes stressful one. At the same time, it can be a rewarding and exciting career choice. Here is what you need to know about becoming an air traffic controller.

3 Steps to Becoming an Air Traffic Controller

1. Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

In the United States, most civilian ATCs are FAA employees. The agency hires periodically for the air traffic control jobs, which are also sometimes referred to as air traffic specialists.

Basic eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship, three years of general work experience or four years of education leading to a bachelor’s degree (or a combination of both), the ability to speak English clearly, and a willingness to relocate.

Applicants must also be younger than 31 years of age, but there are exceptions for experienced ATCs. Males must also be registered for the Selective Service System if they are required to do so.

2. Apply

The FAA typically runs an annual recruitment campaign with a short application window lasting only a few days. Applications are submitted through the federal government’s job site, USA Jobs.

Applicants will then need to pass a skills assessment at an approved testing facility. The assessment is a multipart aptitude test that includes memory games, air traffic simulation, a personality test, and more.

The next step is to pass medical and security clearances. These include drug testing, medical exam, psychological testing, and federal background check.

3. Training

Successful applicants attend the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. ATC trainees are placed in one of three tracks (En Route, Terminal Radar, or Tower). Their time at the academy ranges from two to five months, depending on the track. 

Training continues at an air traffic control facility following graduation. It can take up to three years to be a fully certified controller.

Air Traffic Controller Salary

While attending the FAA Academy, trainees receive a pay of around $37,000 plus a per diem of approximately $100 per day.

Once they are assigned to a facility, their minimum annual wage is around $46,000 plus a locality pay that depends on their assigned facility. This typically leads to an annual salary of approximately $60,000 to $70,000.

ATCs receive salary increases as they complete each training phase, as well as throughout their careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for air traffic controllers in 2023 was $137,380 per year or $66.05 per hour.

Work Locations

FAA air traffic controllers work at facilities across the country.

While tower controllers work at airports, those in the other two tracks might work elsewhere. The facilities for En Route controllers and Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) controllers are typically not located at an airport.

Applicants must be willing to relocate and work anywhere in the country. While they are given the opportunity to provide geographic preferences, the FAA assigns controllers based on its needs. Controllers can transfer between facilities throughout their careers.

Other Ways of Becoming an Air Traffic Controller

There are a few other ways of becoming an air traffic controller in the United States.

One is by joining the military as an ATC. Military controllers can earn the same FAA certifications as civilian controllers. In fact, many choose to become FAA air traffic controllers after they leave the military.

The FAA also has around 250 contract towers that are staffed by employees of private contracted companies. The approximately 1,400 air traffic contract controllers have to meet the same qualification and training requirements as FAA controllers. However, these companies typically only hire controllers who are already certified, meaning that most new hires are former FAA employees or military controllers.

The post How to Become an Air Traffic Controller appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Airlines place a large amount of emphasis on the safety of their operations, all while ensuring their pilots adhere to the highest level of standards. To do so, airlines designate check airmen to conduct line checks, flight checks, competency checks, etc. to ensure all standards are appropriately met.

In the context of FAA regulations and airline operations, the terms check pilot and check airman are synonymous. The term check pilot is aimed to be more inclusive, therefore, the FAA and aviation industry members, including airlines, are gradually transitioning to the use of the term check pilot.

Nevertheless, both terms refer to a pilot approved by the airline and the FAA who has the knowledge, training, experience, and demonstrated ability to evaluate and certify the knowledge and skills of other pilots. So, whether you encounter a check pilot or a check airman, they serve the same purpose in the context of evaluating and certifying pilots’ abilities.

What Is a Check Airman?

A check airman is a pilot approved by the airline and the FAA who has the knowledge, training, experience, and demonstrated ability to evaluate and certify the knowledge and skills of other pilots. Check airmen can conduct checks and instruction in an aircraft, a flight simulator, or a flight training device.

The following information outlines the attributes, qualifications, duties and responsibilities, as well as salary expectations of a check airman.

Check Airman Attributes

Check airmen are some of the best pilots at the airlines. They are often recommended for this position by their peers and leaders (e.g., chief pilot) due to their highly desirable attributes. Some of the top qualities of a check airman include airmanship, character, communication skills, and professionalism.

Check airman candidates are skilled crewmembers who are dedicated to safety as well as professional and productive operations at an airline. They have the ability to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of a procedure or the performance of a crew. Check airmen can also relate to and work well with others and organize their efforts and activities, all while providing a climate conducive to learning.

Check Airman Qualifications

Check airmen must possess a minimum number of hours as pilot in command, as well as a minimum number of hours in the type aircraft in which instruction and evaluation will be conducted. Previous experience as a flight instructor or a check airman can be an advantage when being considered for the position.

Check airmen are generally recommended for the position by their peers and leaders. Once recommended, they must successfully complete a preselection process, which involves the evaluation and approval by various members of the airline leadership team to be selected for the check airman position.

Check Airman Duties and Responsibilities

Check airmen represent the airline and the FAA. Therefore, they must be knowledgeable in applicable FAA regulations and publications, airline policies, procedures, training requirements, and aircraft systems.

Check airmen monitor and evaluate pilot compliance and ensure standardization through proper training. They are also responsible for staying current with their own flight proficiency and instructor/evaluator qualifications.

Check Airman Salary

Every airline has its own pilot contract that determines the pay structure for its flight crews. Typically, salaries vary based on which pilot seat the crewmember occupies (i.e., captain or first officer), which aircraft type they fly, and how long they have been in that seat.

Check airmen are generally compensated an additional hourly rate due to their added duties and responsibilities. Most check airmen are experienced and seasoned captains, positioning them towards the top of the pay scale.

Types of Check Airmen

Although every airline has its own variation of check airman designations, this list provides a general overview of the types of check airmen that may be appointed at the major airline level.

Line Check Airman

Check airmen who are authorized to conduct proficiency and line checks are also known as line check airmen. They are authorized to conduct the training and evaluation of line pilots in the aircraft.

Their responsibilities include standardizing and properly executing standard operating procedures among the line pilots.

All Check Airman

Check airmen are authorized to conduct all checks, conduct training and evaluation of line pilots in both the simulator and the aircraft. They are also responsible for the standardization and proper execution of standard operating procedures among the line pilots.

Lead Check Airman

Lead check airmen are responsible for ensuring standardization among the fleet’s check airmen. They conduct observations, training, and evaluations of each one.

These individuals are also responsible for many administrative tasks and special projects assigned by the airline.

Aircrew Program Designee (APD)

APDs are check airmen who conduct evaluations of line pilots as FAA authorized designees (i.e., FAA check airmen) for the approval of new aircraft type ratings. Additionally, they perform the standard duties and responsibilities of check airmen.

Types of Checks Conducted by Check Airmen

Check airmen conduct flight training and checks according to an airline’s approved training program. The program dictates whether the training will be conducted in a flight simulator or an aircraft.

Initial/Recurrent Training and Checking in a Simulator

Much of initial and recurrent pilot training and checking is conducted in a simulator. Simulators offer practical, efficient, and safe training and checking experiences, making them a valuable tool for skill development.

Some events conducted in a simulator include maneuvers validations and line operational evaluations (LOE).

Initial/Recurrent Training and Checking in an Aircraft

Certain training program events, however, must be demonstrated and evaluated in an actual aircraft. These events are meant to evaluate a flight crew’s ability to carry out normal and emergency procedures.

Some events conducted in an aircraft include initial operating experience (IOE), as well as proficiency and line checks.

Selecting a Flight School

Finding the right flight school is the first step in every professional pilot’s flight journey. When selecting a flight school, it is important to consider whether it offers curriculums geared towards training and developing professional pilots.

After receiving their private pilot license and instrument rating, pilots should look for flight schools that offer commercial pilot training, certificated flight instructor (CFI) training, and eventually Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) training. Although becoming a CFI isn’t a requirement for becoming a check airman at the major airlines, it may offer pilots under consideration a distinct advantage. 

Another thing to consider when selecting a flight school is whether it has airline partnerships and job placement opportunities. Many established flight schools offer varying degrees of training and opportunities to get a professional pilot to the airline level.

Online Resources

There are many online resources available to assist individuals in advancing their careers to the next level. Here are some geared toward obtaining commercial pilot, flight instructor, and airline transport pilot certificates, which are required of major airline check airmen.

• Pilot Institute offers the Commercial Pilot Made Easy online ground school to help students pass the FAA commercial pilot exam.
• Sporty’s Commercial Pilot Training Course offers complete preparation for the commercial pilot FAA knowledge test and all the tools pilots need to ace their oral exam and flight test.
• ASA provides several resources for those interested in advancing their careers to the next level by obtaining commercial pilot and airline transport pilot certificates.
• Angle of Attack boasts the Checkride ACE Commercial course to get pilots ready for the commercial pilot oral and practical tests.
• Rod Machado offers free eTeaching Tools for flight instructors to make their jobs easier and more enjoyable.
• King Schools has online ground school and test prep courses for commercial pilot, flight instructor, and airline transport pilot candidates.
• Pilots HQ provides commercial pilot and flight instructor training kits.
• FLY 8MA offers the Commercial Pilot ASEL Checkride Prep Boot Camp and CFI written, oral, and checkride prep courses.
• Wifi CFI teaches commercial pilot and flight instructor courses, as well as an ample amount of flight instructor tools.

The Path to Becoming a Check Airman

Once at the airlines, there is no one, set way of becoming a check airman.

However, check airmen are some of the best pilots, instructors, and evaluators at an airline. They possess certain attributes and experiences that make them stand out as leaders in this role. To be considered for the position, check airman candidates must also meet the necessary FAA and  airline job requirements.

If your goal is to become a check airman at a major airline, it is important to make your intentions clear early in your career and establish relationships with people that can help you get there in the least amount of time. Having a mentor is a great way to work with someone who can assist you with creating a path catered to your career goals.

Finally, check airmen are often individuals that go above and beyond the line of duty, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, take on extra responsibilities, and become a leader others can rely on.

FAQ

What is a check pilot?

A check pilot is a pilot approved by an airline and the FAA who has the knowledge, training, experience, and demonstrated ability to evaluate and certify the knowledge and skills of other pilots.

What is the difference between a check pilot and a check airman?

There is no difference between a check pilot and a check airman. The terms are synonymous and used interchangeably within the aviation industry.

What are the different types of check airmen?

The different types of check airmen vary based on each airline. However, some check airman designations can include all check airmen, line check airmen, lead check airmen, aircrew program designees (APDs), etc.

The post How to Become a Check Airman at a Major Airline appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Founded in 2009, Solairus boasts 75-plus base locations, 330-plus private aircraft, and about 2,00 flight crew and support personnel. The company is headquartered in Petaluma, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Solairus Aviation Mission Statement

“We never settle for even very high levels of customer satisfaction and we’re always looking for better ways to do our business.” —Greg Petersen, chief operating officer

Solarius Aviation in the News

Solairus Aviation Announces Updates to Executive Leadership Team
Company appoints Brent Monroe as chief growth officer and promotes Bob Marinace to chief experience officer.

Solairus Aviation Announces Chad Davidson Business Aviation Leadership Scholarship Fund
The fund honors late aviator and Solairus team member Chad Davidson in support of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University students.

Solairus Aviation Openings on FindaPilot.com

• Hawker 900XP Captain in Rockland, ME
• Gulfstream G650 Captain in Teterboro, NJ
• Gulfstream G550 Captain in Teterboro, NJ
• Challenger 650 Captain in Bedford, MA
• Gulfstream G500 Captain in Oxford, CT
• Gulfstream G650 Captain in Camarillo, CA

More Solairus Aviation Resources:

• Career site 
• LinkedIn 
• Facebook 
• X (Twitter) 
• Instagram 
• YouTube

The post Employer Profile: Solairus Aviation appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Becoming a fighter pilot is a dream for many. Military flying has been around since the world wars, but as technology advanced—and media representation in movies such as Top Gun increased—the general public’s fascination with military pilots, especially fighter pilots, has only increased.

One of the most popular questions many have is how to become a military pilot in the first place. It is possible to become a pilot in nearly every branch: the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, Marines, Coast Guard, and National Guard. Each branch completes its own training, but there are common requirements that apply across the board to help applicants start their careers.

Most notably, a four-year degree is usually required to have a chance at becoming a military or fighter pilot. Some applicants complete this prerequisite by attending a university run by a military branch, such as the U.S. Military , Air Force, Naval, or Coast Guard academies. Still, others attend a traditional civilian university and complete additional requirements on campus.

In addition, pilot hopefuls must be officers. Besides attending one of the four military academies, applicants can complete training at the Officer Training School or, especially notable if they attend a four-year university, ROTC. ROTC programs for all branches exist at numerous universities across the country, providing access to practically any interested pilot.

Pilots must also meet a variety of physical criteria and fitness tests. The Air Force stipulates that height requirements vary based on the aircraft a pilot will operate, but fitness is still of paramount importance. Uncorrected 20/20 vision, or better, is critical, as is good heart health and acceptable hearing. Pilots must also be in good mental health so they can remain calm and focused even in the most stressful situations.

Finally, there are many demographic criteria that a prospective candidate must meet. Pilots need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident at least 18 years old. Maximum ages vary by branch but are generally in the mid-30s.

All these requirements must be met before a pilot even gets in an aircraft. After becoming eligible, a pilot must complete a ground school course on aerodynamics, aircraft systems, and more. The military uses a series of basic trainer aircraft, many based on civilian aircraft models, to start their pilots’ training before moving them to advanced aircraft and, finally, the pilot’s permanent type.

Military pilots have a variety of roles and responsibilities. From refueling other aircraft and searching for threatening targets to providing aerial support to ground troops and even dogfighting, pilots are expected to carry out each mission with professionalism, expertise, and skill.

After settling into their new job, pilots have opportunities to be promoted or change types. These moves can often be competitive, and new positions are based on performance. However, military pilots are nothing if not motivated to meet each new challenge and opportunity head-on.

The post How to Become a Military Pilot appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Meanwhile, many airlines are actively hiring for one particular behind-the-scenes job. Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) are in high demand throughout the United States and around the world.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates four percent growth for aircraft and avionics mechanics through 2032. Aviation training company CAE projects a need for 138,000 AMTs by 2033. While only two out of the five largest U.S. airlines are currently hiring pilots, all of them are hiring AMTs.

• READ MORE: AMT Day Offers Opportunity to Inspire Next Generation

AMTs play a critical role in the world of aviation and becoming one opens the door to a challenging and rewarding career. Here is what you need to know about being an Aviation Maintenance Technician:

What Is an AMT?

AMT is the term for a licensed aircraft mechanic in the United States. There are two ratings under the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) certification for AMTs: airframe and powerplant. Most jobs require applicants to have both, with the term “A&P” (airframe and powerplant) often being used interchangeably with AMT.

What Do They Do?

The role of an AMT is wide-ranging. AMTs can work on any type of aircraft, ranging from small general aviation planes to widebody jumbo jets. Similarly, AMTs can perform maintenance of all parts of an aircraft. An AMT’s work can consist of anything from making a small pre-departure repair to an airliner at an airport gate to working on an engine overhaul in a hangar.

As a result, there are diverse career prospects for AMTs. While many choose to work for airlines, there are also opportunities to work for other employers like business and charter companies, government bodies, and maintenance contractors.

How Much Do They Make? 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for aircraft mechanics in 2023 was $75,400. The median annual pay for those working at airlines was $101,500

How Do I Become One?

The FAA requires AMTs to meet a set of basic requirements before they can be licensed. Prospective AMTs must be at least 18 years of age and be fluent in English. In addition, they must meet either a training or experience requirement.

AMTs can meet the training requirement by graduating from an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician school or by completing the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council training course for military personnel.

Alternatively, they can demonstrate that they have had 18 months of practical work experience with airframes or powerplants or 30 months of experience with both systems.

After meeting these requirements, an AMT must pass three FAA exams (written, oral, and practical) before they can be licensed.

How Long Is AMT School?

Most AMT training programs are designed to be completed between 14 and 24 months. The exact length can depend on the program and student.

Students learn about a wide variety of topics to prepare them for their future careers. Upon completing AMT school, graduates can apply for the FAA AMT certification.

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on AirlineGeeks.com.

The post AMT Jobs Could Be Part of Aviation’s Next Hiring Boom appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Kalitta’s call sign—”Connie”— is a nod to its founder, Conrad “Connie” Kalitta, who began the business as a car-part-carrying airline in 1967. The airline changed its name to American International Airways in 1984, when it began offering air freight, air ambulance, and charter operations.

In 1990, AIA flew hundreds of cargo missions for U.S. military operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf.

The company evolved and transformed into Kalitta Air in 2000. Today its fleet has more than 25 planes, consisting of Boeing 777 and B747-400 freighters.

Kalitta Air Mission Statement

According to its website: “Traveling the globe and delivering a quality product on time, anytime, anywhere.”

Kalitta Air in the News

Kalitta Charters II Says Goodbye to the Boeing 727
Michigan-based cargo operator Kalitta Charters II bid farewell to its final Boeing 727 freighter on April 5. The over-40-year-old aircraft, N729CK, completed a short flight from Willow Run Airport (KIPT) to Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport (KOSC) in Michigan, marking the end of an era for the company.

Which U.S. Airlines Are Hiring Pilots?
Despite recent headlines, there are several career opportunities for aspiring aviators.

The Last 747, Queen of the Skies
The last 747 has rolled off Boeing’s production line, but the iconic jumbo jet still has plenty of history to make.

More Kalitta Resources:

• Career site 
• LinkedIn 
• Facebook 
• X (Twitter) 
• Instagram 
• YouTube

The post Employer Profile: Kalitta Air appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

From search and rescue to aerial photography, the possibilities for helicopter pilots are endless. Here is how to land a job as a helicopter pilot.

How Do You Become One?

The licensing process is similar to that of fixed-wing pilots. Aspiring helicopter pilots need to be a minimum of 17 years old and be able to obtain an FAA medical certificate.

A private pilot certificate is the first step in the journey to a career as a helicopter pilot. The training for this license teaches you the basics of flying a rotary-wing aircraft and prepares you to fly helicopters recreationally.

To make money while flying, you will need a commercial pilot certificate. You can work as a helicopter pilot with this license, opening the door to jobs in industries such as flight tours, medical transport, and law enforcement.

The airline transport certificate is the top-level license and requires significant training. Although it is not required for many helicopter pilot jobs, having it can make you more competitive during your job search.

Where Do You Train?

While they are less prevalent than fixed-wing flight schools, there are many schools offering helicopter flight training across the country.

 After you have researched local training options, your chosen flight school will be able to help you learn more about the process and requirements for obtaining your certificates. Once you have completed the necessary training for each, you will need to pass written and oral tests to earn your license.

Is It Expensive?

The cost of becoming a helicopter pilot varies greatly depending on your situation, but a private pilot certificate typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000. Earning your commercial license can cost upward of $100,000.

What Types of Companies Can Employ You?

Once you have your commercial pilot license, you can begin applying for helicopter pilot jobs. There are many types of companies and organizations in need.

Medical airlift and evacuation companies commonly use helicopters to transport patients, and therefore have a significant demand for pilots. Similarly, search and rescue operators also require pilots to operate their helicopters.

Helicopters are often used for observing the world beneath them or capturing imagery of the ground. There are companies that employ helicopter pilots for aerial photography and videography, and news organizations hire them as well. If you want to fly passengers, corporate transport and tour companies hire helicopter pilots.  

Government bodies also have a need for commercial helicopter pilots. For example, the military employs pilots to work as instructors, and the U.S. Forest Service  for their firefighting operations. Law enforcement agencies  hire civilian pilots to fly their aircraft.

Do You Make Good Money?

The salary for helicopter pilots can vary depending on their experience and employer, but you can expect salaries to start at around $70,000 per year. With more experience, one can easily earn upward of $100,000 to $200,000 annually.

Is There a Demand?

There is a significant need for helicopter pilots across the United States. Many employers are actively seeking new pilots, and the demand is forecasted to grow over the coming years.

Helicopters perform specialized tasks that are vital to society. Despite the cost and effort required to gain the necessary licenses and experience, helicopter pilots are rewarded with exciting career prospects and competitive salaries.

The post How to Land a Helicopter Pilot Job appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Clay Lacy Mission Statement

The company’s website lists the following values: Strive for excellence, thoughtfully improve, and do the right thing. 

Clay Lacy in the News

Clay Lacy Prepares to Open Waterbury-Oxford FBO Summer 2024
Clay Lacy Aviation’s newest FBO and hangar complex at Waterbury-Oxford Airport (KOXC), which serves New York City and the greater Northeast, is nearing completion and scheduled to open this summer. 

Clay Lacy Aviation, Overair Partner to Bring Air Taxis to Southern California
The FBO network and infrastructure developer will install vertiports and electric chargers and work toward an air taxi concept of operations.

A Life in Pursuit with Clay Lacy
In a long and storied career, Clay Lacy Aviation has notched extraordinary experiences in commercial and business aviation, the military, and air racing.

Clay Lacy Job Openings on FindaPilot.com

• Gulfstream 650 Captain in White Plains, NY
• Pilot Challenger 350 in Seattle, WA
• Gulfstream GIVSP Captain in Los Angeles, CA
• Global 6000 Captain in Van Nuys, CA
• Gulfstream G650 Captain in Los Angeles, CA
• Gulfstream G650 Captain in Van Nuys, CA

More Clay Lacy Resources:

• Clay Lacy career site
• Facebook
• X (Twitter)
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

The post Employer Profile: Clay Lacy Aviation appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Being a pilot typically involves working evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. The job can therefore take a toll on a pilot’s personal life outside of work.

Although achieving a good work-life balance can be a challenge for pilots, it is extremely important for a pilot’s mental health and overall well-being. There are many steps that pilots can take to ensure that they have a solid personal-professional balance.

Flying Widebody Aircraft and Long-Haul Flights

Pilots are assigned to a certain type of aircraft by their airline.

Widebody aircraft are typically seen as more desirable for those seeking more time off between working days. This is because airlines have a minimum number of hours that pilots need to fly per month, and it is easier to reach the required amount through flying a few long-haul flights operated by widebody aircraft than by flying many short-haul segments on a narrowbody aircraft.

Widebody pilots therefore tend to have more days off and longer rest periods at home between their trips.

Commuting vs. Living ‘In Base’

Airline pilots begin and end their trips at an assigned crew base. Some pilots choose to not live where they are based and commute by air before and after their trips using airline flight benefits.

For example, a New York-based pilot could live in Cleveland or Louisville, Kentucky. The decision to commute can include many factors, such as cost of living and their family situation.

The decision of whether to commute or live “in base” can have a significant impact on a pilot’s work-life balance. Commuting adds hours—and sometimes an additional night—to a pilot’s time away from home, whereas living in base only requires a trip in a car or on public transit before and after work.

Having a Strong Support Network of Family and Friends

Although having supportive family and friends is beneficial in any career, it is especially important for a job like airline pilot.

A pilot’s schedule and time away from home can be challenging for family and relationships, and it is important for pilots to ensure that their friends and loved ones understand the nature of their schedule.

As pilots will miss weekends, holidays and special occasions for work, it is equally important for them to make time for their personal lives to help foster healthy relationships with friends and family.

The Impact of Seniority

In the United States, pilots are typically bid for and receive trips based on their seniority within the company. This means that pilots who have been with an airline for longer will generally have more say in their schedules.

Since a pilot’s schedule can have a major impact on their work-life balance, pilots who are further in their careers will typically have more desirable schedules.

Being ‘On Reserve’

Typically, pilots with low seniority at an airline will have to spend time “on reserve.” This means that they are required to be at their base airport—or close to it—and wait on standby.

If other pilots cannot work a flight for some reason—such as being sick, missing a connection, or reaching their maximum duty hours because of delays—-pilots on reserve are called in to fly.

Reserve duty is generally considered undesirable among crewmembers and having enough seniority to get off reserve and have a predetermined flight schedule—known in the industry as “holding a line”—is seen as a major improvement for a pilot’s work-life balance.

How Many Days a Month Do Pilots Work?

Major airlines typically set a minimum number of hours that their pilots fly monthly, with 70-75 being standard throughout the industry.

However, this figure only includes time spent flying. Pilots have many pre- and post-flight tasks, including flight planning, briefing, and safety checks.

The exact number of days and hours that a pilot works depends on their position and circumstances, but airline pilots typically work between 15 and 20 days per month. A pilot’s exact schedule depends on factors such as the company’s timetable and network, the pilot’s seniority, and their desire to pick up additional trips.

How Many Hours Can a Pilot Work in a Day? 

Federal government regulations limit the number of hours a pilot can fly, as well as the minimum amount of rest between flights.

For example, if a pilot has nine or more hours of scheduled flight time, they must receive 11 consecutive hours of rest by law.

Do Pilots Have Good Work-Life Balance?

The schedule of an airline pilot can pose numerous challenges when it comes to having a good work-life balance.

Although some factors are out of a pilot’s control, such as their seniority, there are many steps that pilots can take to ensure that they have a good work-life balance.  

The post How to Achieve Work-Life Balance as a Pilot appeared first on FLYING Magazine.