Careers Archives - FLYING Magazine https://cms.flyingmag.com/careers/ The world's most widely read aviation magazine Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:18:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.4 Employer Profile: Metro Aviation https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/employer-profile-metro-aviation/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:18:26 +0000 /?p=211964 Metro Aviation operates aircraft for hospitals nationwide and installs medical, law enforcement, and corporate kits into clients’ aircraft.

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

]]>
Metro Aviation Inc. began in 1982 as a helicopter charter, flight training, and maintenance operator. Today, the company has two missions: It installing medical, law enforcement, and corporate kits for aircraft and operating aircraft for hospitals nationwide. 

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

More Metro Aviation Resources:

More Help from FindaPilot.com

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

]]>
How to Become a Corporate Pilot https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/how-to-become-a-corporate-pilot/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:14:46 +0000 /?p=211922 The path requires time and hard work, but there are exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the field.

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

]]>
Beyond the hustle and bustle of a busy airport terminal, there is a whole other world of passenger aviation in our skies. Corporate aircraft and their pilots serve travelers all around the globe each and every day.

Although it is easy to assume that being a pilot means working for an airline, corporate aviation also offers exciting careers for aviators. Corporate pilots have unique opportunities when it comes to their lifestyle, workplace, and travel destinations. Here is what you need to know about becoming a corporate pilot.

What Does a Corporate Pilot Do?

There are a few different types of employers that hire corporate pilots. Some nonaviation companies—such as Walmart and the Las Vegas Sands Corp.—have fleets of private jets. These companies hire pilots to fly their executives and employees for business purposes.

It is also possible to work for an individual or family that owns a private jet. Certain businesspeople, celebrities, and other individuals with significant wealth have their own aircraft and hire personal pilots to operate them.

Many corporate pilots work for charter companies that operate private aircraft. Individuals and companies who do not have their own aircraft but want to fly privately can hire these companies on an as-needed basis. Pilots working for these companies often have the opportunity to serve a variety of clients and fly to a diverse range of destinations. 

Corporate pilots fly many different types of aircraft, with the exact type depending on their employer. While some corporate pilots fly single-engine propeller aircraft, others fly heavy passenger aircraft in a business jet configuration.

What Are the Steps to Becoming a Corporate Pilot? 

As is the case with any pilot career, the first step is obtaining a private pilot certificate.

This license will give you the basic skills to fly an airplane or helicopter and allow you to fly small aircraft recreationally. Minimum requirements for a private pilot certificate include being 17 years old and obtaining an FAA medical certificate.  

The next step is to earn a commercial pilot certificate. This is what gives you the ability to be paid as a pilot and allows you to start your aviation career.

Although you can land some corporate pilot jobs with only a commercial pilot certificate, employers will often require significant flight time before you are eligible—typically 1,500 hours. So you will need to build your hours before entering the corporate pilot world.

Luckily, there are many jobs available as a low-hour commercial pilot, including air tours, surveying, and instructing.

Some corporate pilot jobs will require you to have the top-tier pilot license, airline pilot transport certificate, or ATP certificate. Pilots must have a minimum of 1,500 flight hours to obtain this certification.

Each employer has its own requirements, but corporate first officer jobs will typically need 1,500 hours of flight time, a FAA first-class or second-class medical certificate, a valid passport and the legal authorization to work in the United States, and a Federal Communications Commission radio operator license. Captain jobs will require more flying experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a corporate pilot? 

The amount of time that it takes for you to complete your flight training depends on how often you fly. Once you have your commercial pilot certificate, you can hit the 1,500-hour threshold in as little as two years if you have a full-time flying job.

How much do corporate pilots make?

The salary of a corporate pilot can vary greatly depending on their work hours, aircraft type, geographic location, and employer. Given the current demand for pilots, salaries are fairly competitive with the airlines. New first officers can expect to make around $70,000 to $100,000 per year, while senior captains can have annual salaries of over $300,000.

How much does it cost to become a regional airline pilot?

If you are starting from no flying experience, getting a commercial pilot certificate in the United States will cost around $100,000. Once you have an entry-level pilot job, your costs will be offset by your pay, and your overall income and any debt will depend on your circumstances.

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

]]>
Boeing Projects Need for 2.4 Million New Aviation Professionals https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/boeing-projects-need-for-2-4-million-new-aviation-professionals/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:05:54 +0000 /?p=211890 Company also anticipates a 3 percent increase in airplane deliveries over the next 20 years, stoking a demand for 44,000 new commercial aircraft.

The post Boeing Projects Need for 2.4 Million New Aviation Professionals appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

]]>
OSHKOSH, Wisconsin—Commercial aviation will need 2.4 million new aviation professionals over the next 20 years, according to Boeing’s 2024 Pilot and Technician Outlook (PTO) announced Monday at EAA AirVenture.

The report noted that long-term demand for qualified aviation personnel remained strong with the need for some 674,000 pilots, 716,000 maintenance technicians, and 980,000 cabin crewmembers by 2043 to meet growing demands.

“Driven by aviation traffic trending above pre-pandemic levels, personnel attrition and commercial fleet growth, the demand for aviation personnel continues to rise,” said Chris Broom, vice president of commercial training solutions for Boeing Global Services. “We are focused on being a reliable and innovative partner in the lifecycle of aviation training. Our offerings are rooted in competency-based training and assessment programs to help ensure high quality aviation training starting in flight schools and in commercial operations while helping enhance aviation safety through immersive and virtual training solutions.”

Boeing also anticipated a 3 percent increase in airplane deliveries over the next 20 years, projecting a need for 44,000 new commercial aircraft. According to the company, single-aisle airplanes will make up 71 percent of the fleet with new deliveries primarily for short- to medium-haul routes.


Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on AVweb.

The post Boeing Projects Need for 2.4 Million New Aviation Professionals appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

]]>
How to Become an Air Traffic Controller https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/how-to-become-an-air-traffic-controller/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:29:20 +0000 /?p=211882 ATCs have an exciting and rewarding job, but the path to becoming one can be long and challenging.

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

]]>
Air traffic controllers play a crucial role in the global aviation system. Whether they are directing aircraft on the ground at a busy airport or giving clearances to planes flying at cruising altitude, these aviation professionals work hard to keep our skies safe.

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.

]]>
How to Become a Check Airman at a Major Airline https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/how-to-become-a-check-airman/ Fri, 19 Jul 2024 19:11:49 +0000 /?p=210280 Let’s explore who check airmen are, what they do, and how you can become one.

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

]]>
Ensuring the highest level of safety for every flight demands meticulous planning, precise navigation, and adherence to strict regulations.

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.

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.

]]>
Employer Profile: Solairus Aviation https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/employer-profile-solairus-aviation/ Wed, 17 Jul 2024 20:16:42 +0000 /?p=211595 The aviation services company helps owners manage and operate their aircraft safely, reliably, and economically.

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

]]>
Solairus Aviation is an aviation services company that helps owners manage and operate their aircraft safely, reliably, and economically. It also offers charter services that use its managed fleet to meet customer needs.

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

More Solairus Aviation Resources:

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

]]>
How to Become a Military Pilot https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/how-to-become-a-military-pilot/ Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:54:20 +0000 /?p=211448 Highly precise and skilled, aviators in the armed forces fly aircraft from fighter jets to multiengine transports.

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

]]>
Military pilots are among the most skilled and highly trained aviators in the world. Extremely precise and skilled, pilots flying aircraft from fighter jets to multiengine transports are held to lofty standards and respected for their work.

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.

]]>
AMT Jobs Could Be Part of Aviation’s Next Hiring Boom https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/amt-jobs-could-be-part-of-aviations-next-hiring-boom/ Mon, 15 Jul 2024 20:23:02 +0000 /?p=211393 Although pilot employment has been a hot topic in recent years, there is another field with growing prospects.

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

]]>
There has been a lot of talk about pilot hiring over the past few years. The post-pandemic era saw airlines hiring pilots in record numbers, but recruitment has slowed down in recent months.

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.

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.

Maintenance crews remove engine covers from a JetBlue aircraft. [Credit: AirlineGeeks/William Derrickson]

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.

]]>
Airlines Cut Pilot Hiring Numbers in First Half of 2024 https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/airlines-cut-pilot-hiring-numbers-in-first-half-of-2024/ Thu, 11 Jul 2024 14:24:02 +0000 /?p=211161 Major U.S. carriers added nearly 3,000 fewer pilots so far this year compared to 2023.

The post Airlines Cut Pilot Hiring Numbers in First Half of 2024 appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

]]>
Major U.S. airlines substantially scaled back pilot hiring during the first half of 2024. Citing aircraft delivery delays and normalizing attrition levels as reasons for the slowdown, airlines hired just over 3,600 pilots from January through June, a decrease from the 6,509 hired during the same period in 2023.

Data from airline career consultancy group Future & Active Pilot Advisors (FAPA) measures hiring trends at 13 major U.S. carriers. The largest year-over-year swing was at Delta Air Lines, which hired 1,667 fewer pilots during the first half of 2024.

Delta announced plans to reduce hiring by roughly 50 percent earlier this year.

“What we anticipate for the coming year is a very strong, yet more normalized, growth pattern,” the airline told pilots in a January memo viewed by the The Wall Street Journal.

According to FAPA’s figures, Alaska, American, FedEx, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, United, and UPS did not hire in June. Last month, airlines hired a total of 187 pilots, down from the 909 in June 2023. It isn’t uncommon for airlines to slow hiring during the busy summer months, allowing training resources to be moved to the line.

UPS was the only carrier that hired more pilots year-over-year. With a new Postal Service contract in play, the cargo carrier hired 62 pilots between May and June with plans for a total of 300 new aviators.

Several major carriers — including American and Southwest — have announced plans to halt new hire classes through the end of 2024. Ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) Spirit is slated to furlough roughly 200 pilots in September.

Many major carriers continue to face ongoing aircraft delivery delays, particularly at Boeing. Both Southwest and United have slashed their 2024 737 MAX delivery plans amid the manufacturer’s quality control woes.

Despite the year-over-year decrease, pilot hiring still remains well above pre-pandemic levels. During the first half of 2019, airlines hired 2,519 new pilots for an annual total of nearly 5,000, a far cry from last year’s 12,193.

“In fact, we hired and trained more pilots in 2023 than we have in the history of this airline, and we did it efficiently enough that we were actually a bit ahead of where we needed to be for the summer of 2024,” Russ Moore, American Airlines vice president of flight operations, shared during a company briefing. “This allowed us to transition from a ‘hire and train as many as you can’ approach to a more traditional approach, which in and of itself reduced our hiring targets for 2024.”

Even with major airlines slowing hiring tempos, many regional carriers aren’t out of the woods yet. Some continue to offer sign-on bonuses for new captains and first officers, including GoJet and SkyWest.


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

The post Airlines Cut Pilot Hiring Numbers in First Half of 2024 appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

]]>
Employer Profile: Kalitta Air https://www.flyingmag.com/careers/employer-profile-kalitta-air/ Thu, 11 Jul 2024 14:12:44 +0000 /?p=211159 Kalitta Air provides air cargo transportation services, aircraft heavy maintenance, parts sales and service, and engineering services.

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

]]>
Kalitta Air provides air cargo transportation services, aircraft heavy maintenance, parts sales and service, and engineering services.  Headquartered at Willow Run Airport (KYIP) in Ypsilanti Township, Mich., the company operates worldwide.

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:

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

]]>