Also known as: Aircraft pilot, co-pilot, first officer, captain
What you'll do
Airline pilots fly passengers and cargo to destinations around the world.
Day-to-day tasks
* take turns to fly the plane or communicate with air traffic control
* work out the best route using weather reports and air traffic control data
* create a flight plan including details of fuel needed and the height you'll need to fly
* carry out pre-flight checks of instruments, engines, fuel and safety systems
* brief the cabin crew
* take instructions from air traffic control
* follow procedures during take off and landing to cut down noise pollution
* check data during the flight and adjust the route where necessary
* tell passengers and crew about journey progress
* write reports about in-flight issues
Working environment
Where you could work
You could work on an aircraft.
Your working environment may be cramped, physically demanding and you may spend nights away from home.
Uniform
You may need to wear a uniform.
Working hours
39 to 41 hours per week
When you could work
Skills you'll need
* knowledge of maths
* thinking and reasoning skills
* to be thorough and pay attention to detail
* the ability to operate and control equipment
* observation and recording skills
* patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
* to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become one
You can get into this job through:
* a university course
* specialist courses run by private training organisations
Direct application
* You may be able to apply directly to the Civil Aviation Authority's MAS program to become a commercial pilot if you have flying experience in the armed forces.
* You can also train with a private flying school to get your Commercial Pilot's Licence. Courses can take at least 18 months of full-time study. Part-time or modular courses will take longer. The Civil Aviation Authority has details of flight training schools.
Career path and progression
* You'll start by training as a co-pilot. When you’ve completed at least 1500 flying hours, you can apply for an ATPL and qualify as an airline captain. This will usually take 3 to 5 years after you get your full ATPL.
* With experience, you could become a flight training instructor or an operations manager.
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