What is an airline pilot?

An airline pilot flies passengers and cargo all around the world. They are responsible for the safe operation of an aircraft and also has full responsibility for all their crew and passengers.

What is an airline pilot typically responsible for?

An airline pilot is responsible for many things prior to take off, during the flight and for landing. They will work out the flight plan and the route for the journey.

The pilot will work out how much fuel they will need, depending on the length of the journey and also communicate with air traffic control for the duration of the flight.

Many modern planes have auto pilot systems but the pilot is responsible for overseeing the aircraft flight systems for the duration of the journey.

Most of the tasks will be shared with the co-pilot who is also fully trained to fly the plane when required to do so.

What qualifications or training will I need to become an airline pilot?

You would need to achieve the Airline Transport Pilots Licence and you would normally start work with an airline as a commercial co-pilot. You would then have to complete enough flying hours to qualify fully as an full airline pilot.

The minimum age for pilots is 21 and you could either fund your own training at a training school although this is very costly. Alternatively, you could take the university route and take a course in air transport and operations. These courses have pilot training options.

Do I need to be fit and have good eyesight to become a pilot?

In order to become an airline pilot you do not have to be fit as such, but you would be expected to pass a fitness test. And providing your vision is correctable with glasses or contact lenses, then there is no reason you cannot train to become a pilot.

Are airline pilots given food and accommodation when they arrive at their destination?

Airline pilots are put up in hotels when they arrive at their destinations. They are also given an allowance for food.

I would like to become an airline pilot. How much could I expect to earn?

Once you are an experienced airline pilot, with many years flying under your belt, you could expect to earn anything up to £100,000 per year working with mainstream airlines such as British Airways or Virgin Atlantic.

Also see :

British Airways - The national flag carrier
Virgin - Richard Branson's Virgin Atlantic