What Type of Degree Do You Need to Become an Airline Pilot?
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Posted By: Anica Oaks on January 16, 2018 Since airline pilots are responsible for the safety of their passengers, they need to undergo rigorous training that includes at least 1500 hours of flying time. In the old days, most airline pilots learned their profession in the military. As fewer people join the military, more airline pilots get their training at civilian schools. Education Most airlines require a pilot to have a bachelor’s degree. Airlines prefer majors like aeronautical engineering, aviation, or some other relevant field. The aspiring pilot will need to take classes in physics, mathematics, English, and aeronautical engineering, and they will have to enroll in an FAA-approved aeronautics or aviation program. One such school is the Institute of Aviation at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois that offers associate’s degrees programs. Its courses cover topics like weather, aircraft, and instrument rating, with the last being the ability to pilot in low visibility using only the plane’s instruments. Students may immediately go on to become flight instructors, private pilots or commercial pilots. Those who plan on becoming airline pilots, however, will need to transfer to a four-year school. Pilot’s License Airline pilots need to have a pilot’s license. They will need to have completed at least 250 hours of flight time to qualify for a commercial pilot’s license, and they will need another 1500 flight hours to qualify for an airline transport pilot certificate. The candidate also needs to be at least 18 years old. Getting a pilot’s license involves taking a written exam that covers topics like navigation, FAA regulations, and safety protocols. The written exam is followed by a practical exam during which the pilot will fly with an instructor and demonstrate their skills. Experience Airlines rarely hire people straight out of flight school. Most flight school graduates start off as flight instructors, flight engineers, or charter pilots, and they will need to accumulate as many flight hours as they can. New hires at an airline will serve as copilots. After they have accumulated 2000 flight hours, they may be promoted to pilot. Other Desired Traits Airline pilots need to be in good physical condition; airlines typically administer physical exams to their pilots every six months. While an airline pilot does not need to have naturally perfect vision, they should have contacts or glasses that bring it up to 20/20. Airlines also conduct FBI background checks that cover the past decade and will include credit checks, driving records, and drug tests. If the background check uncovers evidence of substance abuse or a felony conviction, the pilot is immediately disqualified. Airline pilots must also be able to react quickly and decisively in an emergency, and they need to be able to work as part of a team. Airlines rightfully expect a lot form their pilots, and it will take years for a candidate to complete the training and accumulate the needed flight hours. As of 2015, the median salary for an airline pilot was over $117,900. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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