The Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate is the pinnacle of pilot certification in the United States, granting its holders the authority to act as pilot-in-command (PIC) of scheduled airline operations and cargo flights. This certification is governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is a testament to a pilot’s experience, skill, and knowledge.

Airline Transport Pilot Requirements

• Be at least 21 years of age (see R-ATP below) or 23 years of age, depending on the aeronautical experience requirements met.
• Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
• Be of good moral character.
• Hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, a foreign airline transport pilot license with instrument privileges, or a foreign commercial pilot license with an instrument rating.
• Must hold a 1st-class medical certificate
• Complete an approved ATP Certification Training Program (CTP).
• This requirement is only valid if you are seeking the ATP certificate with a multi-engine rating. The ATP single-engine rating does not require the completion of an ATP CTP program.
• Pass a pilot knowledge test with a score of 70% or higher.
• The ATP multi-engine airplane test (ATM) consists of 130 multiple-choice questions while the ATP single-engine airplane test (ATS) consists of 95 questions.
• Meet the aeronautical experience requirements that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought before applying for the practical test.
• Pass the practical test that applies to the aircraft category and class rating sought.

Aeronautical experience requirements (ATP) (R-ATP)

a person who is applying for an airline transport pilot certificate with an airplane category and class rating must have at least 1,500 hours of total time as a pilot that includes at least:

• 500 hours of cross-country flight time.
• 100 hours of night flight time.
• 50 hours of flight time in the class of airplane for the rating sought. A maximum of 25 hours of training in a full flight simulator representing the class of airplane for the rating sought may be credited toward the flight time requirement if the training was accomplished as part of an approved training course. A flight training device or aviation training device may not be used to satisfy this requirement.
• 75 hours of instrument flight time, in actual or simulated instrument conditions, subject to the following:

1. An applicant may not receive credit for more than a total of 25 hours of simulated instrument time in a full flight simulator or flight training device.
2. A maximum of 50 hours of training in a full flight simulator or flight training device may be credited toward the instrument flight time requirements if the training was accomplished in a course conducted by a training center.
3. Training in a full flight simulator or flight training device must be accomplished in a full flight simulator or flight training device, representing an airplane.

• 250 hours of flight time in an airplane as a pilot in command, or as second in command performing the duties of pilot in command while under the supervision of a pilot in command, or any combination thereof, subject to the following:

1. The flight time requirement must include at least—

• 100 hours of cross-country flight time; and
• 25 hours of night flight time.

1. Except for a person who has been removed from flying status for lack of proficiency or because of a disciplinary action involving aircraft operations, a U.S. military pilot or former U.S. military pilot who meets the requirements, or a military pilot in the Armed Forces of a foreign contracting State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation who meets the requirements, may credit flight time in a powered-lift aircraft operated in horizontal flight toward the flight time requirement.

• Not more than 100 hours of total aeronautical experience may be obtained in a full flight simulator or flight training device provided the device represents an airplane and the aeronautical experience was accomplished as part of an approved training course.
• A person who has performed at least 20-night takeoffs and landings to a full stop may substitute each additional night takeoff and landing to a full stop for 1 hour of night flight time to satisfy the requirements; however, not more than 25 hours of night flight time may be credited in this manner.
• A commercial pilot may log second-in-command pilot time toward the aeronautical experience requirements, provided the pilot is employed by a part 119 certificate holder authorized to conduct operations under part 135 of this chapter and the second-in-command pilot time is obtained in operations conducted for the certificate holder under part 91 or 135 when a second pilot is not required under the type certification of the aircraft or the regulations under which the flight is being conducted, and the following requirements are met—

• The experience must be accomplished as part of a second-in-command professional development program;
• The flight operation must be conducted in accordance with the certificate holder’s operations specification for the second-in-command professional development program;
• The pilot in command of the operation must certify in the pilot’s logbook that the second-in-command pilot time was accomplished under this section; and
• The pilot time may not be logged as pilot-in-command time even when the pilot is the sole manipulator of the controls and may not be used to meet the aeronautical experience requirements.
• A commercial pilot may log the following flight engineer flight time toward the 1,500 hours of total time as a pilot:
• Flight-engineer time, provided the time—

1.  Is acquired in an airplane required to have a flight engineer by the airplane’s flight manual or type certificate
2. Is acquired while engaged in operations under part 121 of this chapter for which a flight engineer is required
3. Is acquired while the person is participating in a pilot training program approved under part 121 of this chapter; an
4. Does not exceed more than 1 hour for every 3 hours of flight engineer flight time for a total credited time of no more than 500 hours.

• Flight-engineer time, provided the flight time—

1. Is acquired as a U.S. Armed Forces’ flight engineer crewmember in an airplane that requires a flight engineer crewmember by the flight manual;
2. Is acquired while the person is participating in a flight engineer crewmember training program for the U.S. Armed Forces; and
3. Does not exceed 1 hour for every 3 hours of flight engineer flight time for a total credited time of no more than 500 hours.

R-ATP

• A restricted ATP (R-ATP) is a modification to the standard ATP requirements and allows pilots to obtain the ATP certificate with fewer flight hours than the usual 1,500 hours, with certain limitations.
• The R-ATP minimum hour requirements are as follows:
• 1,000 hours for graduates of an aviation bachelor’s degree program from an FAA-approved institution.
• 1,250 hours for graduates of an associate degree program with an aviation major from an FAA-approved institution.
• The R-ATP allows pilots to become first officers in Part 121 air carrier operations with the reduced flight hour requirement. However, there are certain limitations associated with R-ATP, such as the requirement to complete additional hours of flight experience (typically 500 hours) in certain conditions before acting as a captain in Part 121 operations.

How to build time towards ATP

• CFI

A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) is a highly skilled professional responsible for training aspiring pilots in various aspects of flight. They provide both ground and flight instruction, teaching students essential knowledge about aircraft systems, aerodynamics, navigation, and aviation regulations. CFIs guide students through flight maneuvers, simulations, and procedures to ensure they develop the necessary skills and confidence to become competent pilots. Additionally, CFIs evaluate and assess student progress, tailor instruction to individual learning styles, and prioritize safety throughout the training process. Their role is critical in shaping the next generation of proficient and safe aviators.

• Tow banners

A tow banner pilot is an experienced aviator tasked with towing advertising banners behind an aircraft. These pilots operate specialized aircraft equipped with towing systems designed to carry large banners for aerial advertising purposes. Their responsibilities include navigating to designated locations, coordinating banner pickup and release maneuvers, and ensuring the safe transport of the banner throughout the flight. Tow banner pilots require excellent flying skills, particularly in maneuvering with added drag from the banner, as well as precise coordination with ground crews for banner attachment and retrieval. They often work in dynamic environments, flying at low altitudes over populated areas to maximize the visibility of the advertising message. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and adherence to safety protocols are paramount in this unique and thrilling aviation role.

• Buy an airplane

Building flight hours by purchasing an airplane can be a strategic investment for aspiring pilots aiming to gain experience and progress in their aviation careers. By owning an aircraft, pilots have the flexibility to fly whenever their schedule allows, without the constraints often associated with renting or scheduling aircraft from a flight school or club. Additionally, owners can tailor their flying experiences to focus on specific skill development or training objectives. Flying regularly also allows pilots to maintain proficiency and confidence in their abilities. Furthermore, aircraft ownership presents opportunities for pilots to explore various flying destinations and engage in recreational or business-related aviation activities, all while accumulating valuable flight hours. Over time, the hours logged in personal aircraft contribute significantly to a pilot’s overall flight experience, enhancing their qualifications for advanced ratings, certifications, and career opportunities within the aviation industry.

• Charter Operations

An entry-level commercial pilot typically holds a Commercial Pilot Certificate with single-engine and multi-engine ratings, allowing them to fly aircraft for compensation or hire. These pilots often begin their careers by gaining experience as charter pilots, flying small aircraft for short-haul flights, or air taxi services. Entry-level commercial pilots focus on building flight hours and gaining experience in various flying conditions, honing their skills in navigation, communication, and aircraft operation. They often work under the supervision of more experienced pilots or within structured training programs to continue advancing their careers toward roles with larger airlines, cargo operators, or corporate flight departments. Adaptability, a commitment to safety, and a passion for flying are essential qualities for success in this dynamic and competitive field.

An Airline Transport Pilot is not just a profession but a lifelong passion fueled by dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. With each flight, you will continue to embark on new adventures, embrace new horizons, and inspire others to pursue their dreams with courage and determination. In the end, it’s not just about reaching the destination, but about cherishing the moments, lessons learned, and extraordinary experiences that define the remarkable journey of an ATP pilot.

Operations Requiring First-Class Medical Certificates

Must hold a first-class medical certificate:

• When exercising the pilot-in-command privileges of an airline transport pilot certificate;
• When exercising the second-in-command privileges of an airline transport pilot certificate in a flag or supplemental operation in part 121 that requires three or more pilots; or
• When serving as a required pilot flightcrew member in an operation conducted under part 121 if the pilot has reached his or her 60th birthday.

Duration of First Class Medical Certificate

A first-class medical certificate is valid for a specified duration, depending on the age of the pilot:

1. Under 40 years old: A first-class medical certificate is valid for 12 months, then to third-class privileges for 48 months
2. 40 years old and over: A first-class medical certificate is valid for 6 months, then second-class privileges for an additional 6 months, and third-class privileges for another 12 months.

Application Process For First Class Medical Certificate

The application process for a third-class medical certificate involves several steps:

• MedXpress: Pilots are required to complete FAA Form 8500-8, also known as the Application for Airman Medical Certificate. This form collects personal and medical history information. You can complete this form online through the FAA’s MedXpress website.
• Locate an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME): Pilots must schedule an appointment with an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to undergo the medical examination. The cost of the exam is not set by the FAA, so it may be anywhere from $280- $395 depending on where you live.
• Medical Examination: During the medical examination, the AME will assess various aspects of the pilot’s health, including vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall fitness.
• Submission and Review: Once the examination is complete, the AME will submit the medical certificate application to the FAA for review. With you potentially leaving the doctor’s office with your medical certificate in hand barring any underlying medical issues.

MedXpress

The FAA MedXPress system allows anyone requiring an FAA Medical Clearance or Medical Certificate to electronically complete the FAA Form 8500-8. Information entered into MedXPress will be available for your FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to review at the time of your medical examination.

First-Class Airman Medical Certificate Eligibility

Operations Requiring Second-Class Medical

The privileges associated with a second-class medical certificate are broader compared to a third-class medical.

• Second-in-command privileges of an airline transport pilot certificate
• Privileges of a commercial pilot certificate in an aircraft other than a balloon or glider; or
• Privileges of a commercial pilot certificate with a balloon class rating for compensation or hire; or

Duration of Second-Class Medical

One of the key differences between Second and Third Class Medicals lies in their duration of validity. A second-class medical certificate is valid for a specified duration, depending on the age of the pilot:

1. Under 40 years old: You may exercise commercial privileges for 12 months then your privileges revert down to third-class privileges for 48 months.
2. 40 years old and over: A second-class medical certificate is valid for 12 months then your privileges revert down to third-class privileges for 12 additional months.

Application Process

The application process for a second-class medical certificate involves several steps:

1. MedXpress: Pilots are required to complete FAA Form 8500-8, also known as the Application for Airman Medical Certificate. This form collects personal and medical history information. You can complete this form online through the FAA’s MedXpress website.
2. Locate an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME): Pilots must schedule an appointment with an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to undergo the medical examination. The cost of the exam is not set by the FAA, so it may be anywhere from $175-$250 depending on where you live.
3. Medical Examination: During the medical examination, the AME will assess various aspects of the pilot’s health, including vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall fitness.
4. Submission and Review: Once the examination is complete, the AME will submit the medical certificate application to the FAA for review. With you potentially leaving the doctor’s office with your medical certificate in hand barring any underlying medical issues.

MedXpress

The FAA MedXPress system allows anyone requiring an FAA Medical Clearance or Medical Certificate to electronically complete the FAA Form 8500-8. Information entered into MedXPress will be available for your FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to review at the time of your medical examination.

Obtaining a third-class medical certificate is a crucial first step for aspiring pilots pursuing a private pilot license. Understanding the FAA’s medical requirements, the application process, examination procedures, and disqualifying factors is essential for ensuring a smooth certification process. By adhering to the FAA’s medical standards and seeking guidance from qualified medical professionals when necessary, pilots can maintain their health and safety while enjoying the privileges of flight.

How to Become a Corporate Pilot

There are two ways to fly on expensive and exclusive private jets. You can work and earn a big pile of money to buy one. Or the simple, cheaper option. Become a corporate pilot. 

Corporate pilots are commercial pilots who fly business aircraft around the world. Airplanes like Gulfstreams, Cessna Citations, Dassault Falcons, and Kingair turboprops. Unlike airline pilots, corporate pilots only deal with a few passengers and are not limited to large commercial airports. They typically fly airplanes smaller than airliners and work for companies or private individuals. 

Corporate aviation, also called business aviation, is an exciting career path with excellent pay, benefits, and the ultimate perk, flying fast jets and exploring the world! 

This article will describe the day in the life of a corporate pilot. It will cover job opportunities, the salary, and how to become a corporate pilot.

Corporate Pilot Jobs

Corporate pilots fly privately owned aircraft for private and public companies, private individuals, or private jet companies. 

Many people assume corporate pilots are private pilots for rich folks and celebrities. There are some private jet pilots for these celebrities, but this only represents a small fraction of the available corporate pilot jobs. 

Most business jets require two pilots to fly them. There is a captain and first officer, sometimes called a “co-pilot.” In larger flight departments, there is also a chief pilot and director of operations. These are positions that require more experience, flight hours, and sometimes higher education. They are also paid more than the other pilots.

Business Aviation Jobs

Corporate pilots that fly for companies are also called business aviation pilots. Many publicly traded companies and private companies operate a fleet of aircraft, called a flight department. Flight departments exist to serve the company. They do not sell seats on their airplanes. Only employees of the company are allowed to ride on these jets. 

Despite the high cost of private airplanes, it is often cheaper for the company than buying airline tickets. Plus, they save valuable time by avoiding security lines, extra transportation, and airline delays. 

It is common for corporate pilots to know the CEOs and other top executives on a first-name basis. Professionalism and safety is a top skill for all corporate pilots.

Private flight department pilots are responsible for nearly everything, from catering, fueling, flight-planning, and even acting as the flight attendant on the plane. 

Charter Pilot Jobs

Usually, when people talk about flying on a private airplane, they are thinking of a charter. The cost of owning and operating a private jet is too expensive for most people and small companies. For those who infrequently travel, chartering an aircraft is a cost-effective option.  

Charter pilots are commercial pilots that work for a company that owns the airplanes. These jobs are more similar to airline pilots. Since anyone from the public can charter an aircraft, it is highly regulated. 

Charter pilot jobs may be easier to find than other corporate pilot jobs. Some charter companies employ hundreds of pilots and are run similarly to an airline. Wheels Up is an example of a charter airplane company. 

Private Pilot Jobs

In the world of aviation, a private pilot is anyone who holds a private pilot license. This license allows them to fly themselves and others without compensation. 

However, when discussing “private pilots” most are referring to an individual owning a plane and hiring personal pilots. Some high net-worth people will purchase an airplane and hire a management team to operate it. That will include personal pilots that only work for that individual. 

If you want to get a “private pilot license” so that you can fly private jets, you may be disappointed to find out you’ll need a very different license.  To see all of the pilot license types explained, check out this article here.

Corporate Pilot Life

A wonderful part of aviation is that no day is the same. There are always new views, challenges, and excitement. A corporate pilot may be gone for a single day or weeks at a time when traveling around the world. Below is an example of a corporate pilot that works for a company operating a day trip. 

It is a corporate pilot’s job to operate the aircraft safely and maximize efficiency. Every minute counts. 

Day in the Life of a Corporate Pilot

Let’s take a look at a corporate pilot named Steve, working for a Fortune 500 company’s flight department.

Two days before the trip starts, Steve receives an email and phone notification with details about the trip.  He starts preparations the next day. Steve chooses the best airports, negotiates fuel prices, and gets the airplane stocked for the flight. 

The morning of the trip, Steve arrives two hours before departure, or “wheels up.” He checks the weather with his first officer and files the flight plan. They perform a thorough preflight of the airplane. About 30 minutes before their flight, they start up the aircraft to have it ready the moment the passengers arrive. 

Steve greets the passengers. Today the company’s CEO and some managers are heading to Chicago for a client meeting. As soon as they sit down, Steve starts the engines and begins taxiing out for takeoff. 

Unlike airline flights, there is no security or waiting. A passenger can be dropped off at the airport and take off within minutes. For these people, time equals money. It is the pilot’s job to keep the operation running efficiently and quickly.

Steve flies the first flight. En route, his first officer assists and prepares breakfast for the passengers. Before landing, Steve calls ahead on radio to the airport to confirm their car to meet them at the plane. 

After landing and taxiing to the private terminal, the passengers get out and drive to their business meeting. Steve and his first officer stay with the plane to prepare it for their flight home. 

Their business meeting is scheduled to last three hours. Once Steve and his first officer have taken care of all the preparations for the next flight, they take the provided courtesy car out for lunch. They enjoy a nice meal, paid for by the company card, then head back to the airport. They are always ready to go in case the meeting finishes early. 

Steve and his first officer enjoy a cup of free dark roast coffee from the airport before the passengers arrive. Once again, they have the plane ready, check the weather, file the flight plan, and set up the cabin.

Ding! Steve checks his iPhone. A message from the boss, “The meeting is over, be there in 15.”  The passengers arrive at the plane and settle in, Steve closes the boarding door. Five minutes later, they are airborne. The first officer flies the leg back home.

They land back at their home base and taxi to their private hangar. A car is waiting to take the CEO and managers back to the office for the rest of their workday. Steve and his first officer help the ground crew put the airplane into the hangar. They clean the aircraft, keeping it sparkling. Then, they assist a few other pilots to prepare the airplane for its next flight tomorrow. 

Steve heads home and keeps his phone on in case the scheduling team needs him for another flight. This month he has 12 days off and will spend ten nights in hotels. 

Corporate Pilot Salary

Corporate pilot salaries typically increase as the pilot gains more experience and takes on more responsibility within the flight department. 

Corporate pilots are paid well for their flying experience and professionalism. The schedule can be challenging. Many pilots are required to be on-call, ready to fly at a moment’s notice. So even if they don’t fly, they are paid for being ready to fly.

The National Business Aviation Association, or NBAA, is a group that represents and advocates for all corporate pilots, flight departments, and non-airline flying. Every year they conduct a salary survey. Their recent salary surveys indicate pay is increasing over the past five years. There is more competition due to a growing pilot shortage.

The salaries vary depending on experience, the operation, and the type of aircraft flown. Experienced captains flying large business jets can earn over $200,000, while new first officers flying small or mid-sized business aircraft may earn $60,000 – $100,000. 

Bizjetjobs.com reported the above salary results for 2019 based on a survey. 

Unlike airlines, there is less of a pay gap between captains and first officers.  

How to Become a Corporate Pilot

The pay is great, every day is unique and exciting, and you get to fly state-of-the-art aircraft! So, how do you start? 

The first step is to start training to become a pilot.

To be a corporate pilot, you need to obtain your pilot’s license and build experience and hours. At a minimum, it will require a commercial pilot’s license. This license requires 250 hours of flight time plus a written and oral exam. 

Start your journey to becoming a commercial pilot. 

However, for insurance reasons, most companies require more experience than 250 hours. There are many options to build up flight time with low time pilot jobs. 

While building up experience and logging flight time, you should start building your networking skills. Meet new people and look out for job openings. Finding a corporate aviation job can be challenging. 

Networking as a Pilot

Often, corporate pilot jobs are not found online. It is more a matter of “who-you-know, not what-you-know.” Your resume and experience matter, but your personality and professionalism are more important. The chief pilot is looking for someone, who above all else, is a great person. 

Flight departments may only be a few pilots. They want to make sure you are professional and someone they can spend hours with inside the small cockpit. They also want to make sure you conduct yourself professionally and politely with VIPs and passengers they fly.

The best way to find corporate pilot jobs is to learn the art of networking. Aviation is a small world. Your reputation is the biggest asset. Many pilots have found their current aviation job from a referral or tip by one of their contacts. 

Even for flying jobs posted online, the chief pilot is more likely to interview a pilot they know and has glowing recommendations from the other pilots. Being a professional pilot is about your skills, but also who you know.

This advice applies to private pilots too. To become someone’s personal private pilot, you will need experience and a substantial network. Corporate pilots should always keep their resume updated because opportunities may come at any moment. 

Become a Corporate Pilot

Corporate pilots have, arguably, the coolest jobs in the world. Other than maybe an astronaut, what is better? They fly amazing jets, meet interesting people, eat catered food, and make great money. It is a challenging and unique job. Every day is different, and you will explore the country and world. 

The first step is to earn your pilot’s license and build experience. It is critical to network and to keep an excellent reputation. 

Aviation is a small world. To become a corporate pilot, charter pilot, or someone’s personal private pilot, who you know is usually more important than what you know. 

You can start the first step today, right here. Students from FLY8MA landed their dream corporate and business aviation jobs. The ground school and professionalism offered by FLY8MA is the best way to start preparing for your corporate aviation career.

You’ve done it! You’ve studied, you’ve trained, and you have flown your butt off to get that ‘golden’ commercial pilot certificate that finally allows you to be hired for compensation. But now what? Your new hurdle to climb is to find a job as a newly minted commercial, low time pilot. Sounds tough, but you are in luck as aviation has numerous possibilities when it comes to low time pilot jobs. Here you will find a list of low time pilot opportunities that will finally allow you to put that commercial pilot certificate to use.  

Banner Towing  

I can guarantee you have seen these planes buzzing around football stadiums, concert venues, and even pulling the occasional ‘Will you marry me?’ banner. This type of flying is a great way to start out your professional pilot career as you will most likely be flying numerous hours in a row- slow, low, and in VFR conditions. To become a banner tow pilot, you will need an endorsement that states you have gained proper instruction to ensure the safety of flight as you are hooking the banner onto your aircraft, close to the ground while already airborne. You will also need a tailwheel endorsement to fly the aircraft required to pull these banners. New to tailwheel flying? No need to stress, as  Fly8MA has great resources to get you prepared for that tailwheel endorsement.  

What to expect  

Expect to find a banner towing job in large cities near stadiums or in popular tourist areas. Banner towing pilots will be flying their advertisements over large crowds of people, for numerous hours in a row, which means this type of flying position will more than likely be paid hourly. Also expect this type of flying to be done on weekends, which provides a great opportunity to have another flying position in conjunction with banner towing.  

Glider Towing 

Gliders are light aircraft that maintain flight without an engine. For these aircraft to become airborne, they utilize a powered aircraft to tow them into flight. Much like banner towing, this happens with utilization from a tailwheel aircraft. Unlike the other jobs in this article, glider towing is the only ‘job’ that you can maintain without receiving a  commercial certificate, with the condition being you will not be compensated for your time. Although you may not be getting paid when you begin glider towing, this is a great way to get your foot in the door and gain experience that will lead you towards higher-paying positions. 

What to expect

Glider flying is done in rural areas and mostly on weekends, as this is more of a sport hobby for the glider pilot. If you are being paid as a glider tower, you will more likely than be paid for a day’s worth of work, per flight, or hourly.  Also like banner towing, this is another great opportunity to have another flying job in conjunction with glider towing.  

Aerial Photography

Aerial photography is utilized to get the ‘big picture’ from above. This includes photos of real estate, construction, property, you name it, it can be photographed! As an aerial photography pilot, your job is to fly an aircraft with either a camera mounted to the plane itself or with a photographer that will be in charge of getting ‘that’ photo. You might be asking yourself, can’t a drone just do that? Yes! A drone can absolutely do that. But with the 400 ft. restriction that is placed on drone operations, drones are not capable of getting the same photograph that an aircraft can get at say, 1,500 ft.. This means that aerial photography is still absolutely in demand and a great job for a low time pilot.  

What to Expect

Aerial photography flying jobs can be found all over as the possibilities are endless when it comes to aerial photographs. As an aerial photography pilot, expect to be paid either hourly or salary, depending on how large the aerial photography company is.  Having your multi-engine rating is also a great way to make your resume stand out and bump up the pay as some aerial photography companies only fly multi engine aircraft.  

Flight Instructor  

By now you have heard it once, and you are going to hear it again. Get that flight instructor certificate! A Certified Flight Instructor’s job is of course to teach students to fly, but there is so much more to being a flight instructor than just this. In obtaining your  Certified Flight Instructor certificate, you are solidifying the aviation knowledge you have already gained so far. This certificate will really take you places as you can of course become a CFI with low time, but you can utilize this certificate in many different ways well into your flying future. Have your sites on flying for the airlines? You could be an instructor for them! Ever thought of running a flight school? Every flight school needs a  chief pilot, also known as ‘chief flight instructor.’ Have dreams of creating your own schedule, flying when you want, where you want, with aspiring pilots? Sounds like you would be a great career long flight instructor!  This is just a few examples of where this certificate will take you, and by investing in this certificate you are really making a great investment in yourself as a low time pilot.  

What to Expect

As a low time pilot, you will most likely find yourself in a traditional flight school setting starting out. Flight schools can really be found anywhere, and flight instructors are always in demand meaning the opportunity to find a position is in your favor. Expect to be paid hourly, although there are opportunities for salary positions depending on the school. Some flight school settings even have opportunities for additional flying depending on the services that the flight school provides. Still unsure that the effort of becoming a flight instructor is right for you? Fly8MA has plenty of resources and support to help you achieve this next step in your aviation career.  

Pipeline and Power line Patrol

Pipeline and power lines require regular surveying to ensure there integrity. The most efficient way possible to get this done is by aircraft. Pipeline and power line patrol pilots fly at low altitudes, in VFR conditions, looking for any type of damage to the pipelines and power lines themselves. Since these lines need inspection on a regular basis, pilots acquire hours quickly, making this a great stepping stone job for a low time pilot looking to gain hours and experience.  

What to Expect  

Pipeline and power line patrol flying positions are mostly contracted out to patrol companies, meaning you could potentially be flying for more than one pipeline and power line company at a time. Since you are flying for the patrol company, they will most likely keep you on salary, versus hourly like many of the other low time flying positions discussed in this article.  

Skydive Pilots

You might have guessed it, skydive pilots fly skydivers to altitude so that they can jump out of a perfectly good airplane! If you ask me, I would much rather be the pilot in this situation. That’s a good thing because this is a great job for a low time pilot. With so much going on in each flight transporting skydivers, you are really honing in on all of the skills you have acquired as a pilot so far. Skydive pilots make numerous take off’s and landings each day. As they quickly get to altitude in their aircraft specifically configured for skydivers to jump out mid flight, they are then required to keep the aircraft straight and level so each jumper can safely begin their personal flight. As each skydiver takes their jump, the center of gravity of the aircraft changes, causing the pilot to adjust for this change. With skydiver pilots making numerous flights in any given day, this is a  great way for a low time pilot to gain experience in high workload situations.  What to Expect  

Skydive pilot positions will more than likely be found in rural areas, allowing plenty of room for the skydiver to make their flight safely. Depending on the area that you live in,  skydiving is typically seasonal and done mostly on the weekends. As a skydive pilot you can expect to be paid either hourly, per flight, or daily, depending on the company you are flying for. 

Aerial Tours

This might be one of the most fun pilot jobs in the bunch, as you are not only flying excited tourists over scenic areas, but you are also doubling as pilot and tour guide to provide the most memorable experience possible. Another great low time pilot position as you typically make this these types of flights in daytime, VFR conditions, allowing optimal views for the tourists.  

What to Expect

Aerial tour pilot positions will mostly be found in scenic, tourist areas, although not limited to this alone as most flight schools and FBO’s can provide some type of aerial tour experience. Expect this position to be seasonal, and mostly flown in daytime conditions, as the most desirable time for a tourist to take flight. In this position you will most likely be paid per flight, but could potentially could be paid more as excited tourists are always happy to tip when they have received an excellent tour!  

Your Next Step

Finding your first job as a low time pilot may seem like a daunting task, but with as many different opportunities as there are in aviation, you are sure to find a job that will fit the bill. Wether it be to gain your hours towards you next aviation endeavor, or you are looking to make your life long career out of jobs such as these, your low time pilot job will no doubt create a pilot that becomes full of professional experience and well sought after.