With the demand for skilled aviation professionals continuing to soar, the industry offers hundreds of high-paying aviation career options. If you are thinking about becoming a pilot, designing aircraft technology, or managing operations, the aviation industry presents endless prospects for personal and professional growth. For newcomers to the field or those considering a career change, here is a guide on how to start an aviation career.
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What personality traits are the most important in aviation?
Just as pursuing a job in any other industry, starting an aviation career involves several key steps. Before diving into the specifics of different career paths, newcomers should first consider basic factors such as personal characteristics, as well as their physical and mental health condition.
A combination of several personal traits can make you a well-suited candidate to thrive in the challenging environment of the aviation industry. The ability to pay attention to every minute detail and good communication skills are critical traits. Meticulous attention to detail is not just a recommendation but a fundamental requirement, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance within daily operations. Meanwhile, effective communication serves as the lifeline for most roles, including pilots, air traffic controllers, ground staff, and management departments, facilitating the transmission of crucial information.
For those determined to pursue a career in aviation, facing unforeseen challenges and making split-second decisions under pressure are common scenarios in this path. Such situations demand individuals with quick thinking and strong problem-solving skills. However, above all else, aviation professionals are expected to always uphold a high standard of professionalism and integrity.
You may wonder why physical fitness and mental health are so important to aviation professionals? The reason behind this is straightforward: aviation authorities impose strict medical standards for pilots and other aviation professionals to ensure they are fit to perform their responsibilities. Meeting these standards is essential for obtaining and maintaining licenses and certifications.
How to start a career in aviation?
Skills and qualifications hold a significant sway in your aviation career.
To begin with, while a high school diploma is not always mandatory for every aviation role, it is often preferred, especially for positions needing technical expertise or advanced training. A high school diploma usually demonstrates a basic level of education and may be necessary for further education or training in the field. Even though it is not always required, having a strong base in math and science can be beneficial for many positions.
The next step in pursuing an aviation career is enrolling in a certified aviation training program. For example, for aspiring pilots, the journey starts with attending a flight school to obtain a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
After completing an aviation training program, the newcomers should gain practical experience related to their career goals. This could involve doing internships or starting at entry-level jobs in airlines, Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, ground handling agencies, or other aviation organizations.
While having specific knowledge and practical experience is important, it alone does not guarantee a successful aviation career. Regardless of one’s chosen field within the industry, establishing a robust professional network within the aviation community is essential. This enhances a professional’s visibility, and credibility, and promotes collaborations, eventually helping individuals to advance their career.
The most popular careers in aviation
While each role within the aviation sector carries its own challenges and rewards, some aviation careers notably stand among the most popular and sought-after. Let’s explore the most popular aviation roles, which have been at the forefront of shaping the industry for decades.
Commercial Airline or Corporate Pilot
At the pinnacle of the most popular aviation careers, you may find Commercial Airline Pilots. Their responsibilities consist of safely operating aircraft, communicating with air traffic control, managing flight systems, and ensuring the safety of passengers or cargo throughout the flight. They prioritize safety above all else and are responsible for making critical decisions during various phases of flight, thus the pilots undergo rigorous training.
In the quickest scenario and depending on the region, it typically takes about two years to complete flight training, accumulate the minimum of flight hours, pass required examinations, and obtain a CPL. Even though Commercial and Corporate Pilots are required to complete similar steps in training and certification, the nature of their responsibilities and daily duties may vary significantly.
Here you can explore the latest Pilot job opportunities available in the market.
Flight instructor
Have you ever found yourself deeply inspired by the idea of teaching and mentoring? In that case, the role of a Flight Instructor would be an ideal fit for you.
Flight instructors are typically experienced pilots who have obtained their CPL or ATP certificate. They have accumulated a significant number of flight hours and have a deep understanding of aviation principles, regulations, and safety procedures.
Many Flight Instructors have a passion for teaching and mentoring Cadet Pilots, sharing their knowledge and expertise to help others achieve their aviation goals. Yet, some aviators may pursue a Flight Instructor role as a stepping stone to gain valuable experience before transitioning to other aviation-related positions.
Discover the latest Flight Instructor jobs here.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer. Aerospace engineering stands as another highly sought-after field within aviation. Aerospace Engineers are the ones who drive innovation and progress by designing, developing, and testing new aircraft models as well as accompanying systems.
To join their ranks, the newcomers typically pursue a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Throughout studies, they focus primarily on aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and structural design, gaining a solid foundation in engineering principles. Aiming to further enhance their expertise and open doors to more specialized roles within the field, Aerospace Engineers often pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D.
Air Traffic Controller
Rumors circulate about the Air Traffic Controller role being one of the most stressful jobs in the aviation industry. But is this true?
Air Traffic Controllers play a crucial role in maintaining the order and safety of airspace. Orchestrating the movements of countless aircraft with precision and efficiency does not sound easy. Although this role is undoubtedly demanding, individuals with the appropriate mindset often discover immense satisfaction in their career path.
If you dream of becoming an Air Traffic Controller, you will need to complete an approved air traffic control training program. This program includes classroom instruction, simulator training, and hands-on experience. The program covers air traffic regulations, communication procedures, and radar operations. Then, to obtain the desired license, you need to pass the required exams and undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet the necessary physical and mental fitness standards.
Upon completion of the training, you should undertake on-the-job training at an air traffic control facility. During this phase, you will work under the supervision of experienced controllers to gain practical experience in managing air traffic.
Aircraft Mechanic or Aircraft Maintenance Technician
This role could be described as ‘behind the scenes’, yet remains crucial as these professionals uphold the integrity and airworthiness of aircraft.
To begin a career in aviation maintenance, the aspiring Aircraft Mechanic must complete an entry-level course. Here, s/he familiarizes with the fundamentals of aircraft engineering, ground handling, and electric systems, as well as the basics of turbine engines, safety, and legislation. Following the training, the newcomers are required to acquire practical experience within an aviation regulator-authorized MRO organization. There they engage in various maintenance activities under supervision, including tasks such as cleaning aircraft and components, tire replacement, hydraulic fluid and oil replenishment, and the replacement of non-structural cabin interior parts such as seats or carpets. But only licensed and highly experienced specialists perform more complex tasks and repairs.
If you are eager to explore how to become a licensed mechanic in Europe, the US, or Canada, dive in here to uncover more detailed guidance.
Interested in the newest vacancies for an Aircraft Mechanic role? Find them here.
Aviation Safety Inspector
The daily responsibilities and duties of Aviation Safety Inspectors vary depending on their specialized areas. For instance, they can verify staff training and certifications, ensure compliance with safety regulations at airports and other aviation facilities, or may be responsible for overseeing safety and quality in aircraft maintenance procedures and personnel training protocols.
To kick-start your career as an Aviation Safety Inspector, you must have a bachelor’s degree in aviation management, aerospace engineering, or a relevant field. Additionally, you must undergo specialized training approved by the local aviation authority. This training program helps to gain knowledge of aviation regulations, safety procedures, and inspection techniques.
Practical experience in safety management, aircraft maintenance, or regulatory compliance is also required for this role.
Explore the latest Aviation Safety Inspector jobs here.
Flight Attendant / Cabin Crew
Becoming a Flight Attendant is a journey that requires dedication and a passion for customer service. To start, a Cabin Crew member must meet basic requirements such as age, education, and legal eligibility to work.
While a higher education degree is not mandatory for this position, candidates must undergo a medical examination and a specific training program. Such a program usually consists of airline safety procedures, emergency protocols, and internal company policies as well as customer service standards. These measures ensure that flight attendants are well-equipped to handle various situations and prioritize passenger safety and satisfaction both during and after a flight.
Discover the latest Cabin Crew job opportunities available.
Among those listed above, which do you believe would best align with your personal and professional goals?
Does aviation have a future?
When considering a long-term career in the aviation sector, one may wonder about the future of aviation and how it will develop in the years to come. The answers to such questions can be discovered within the outlooks released by the leading giants of the aviation industry.
Continuing development in aircraft technology, including the production of more fuel-efficient engines, lightweight materials, and improvements in navigation systems, are enhancing aircraft performance, safety, and environmental sustainability. Emerging technologies like electric and hybrid propulsion systems have the potential to transform aviation shortly. These factors further contribute to the ongoing growth and evolution of the aviation industry.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that the demand for air travel will continue rising globally. According to the association, global air passenger numbers are expected to double to 8.2 billion by 2037, with an average annual growth rate of 3.5%. With growing demand, the aviation industry is expected to create thousands of aviation career opportunities worldwide.
For example, Boeing’s latest Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) projects a global demand for 42,595 new commercial jets valued at $8 trillion by 2042 to address the increasing need for air travel expansion. In the meantime, the aircraft manufacturer also estimates that 649,000 new pilots, 690,000 new aircraft maintenance technicians, and up to 938,000 new cabin crew members will be required to operate and maintain the global commercial fleet over the next two decades.
Why not seize the chance to join the ever-expanding community of aviators?