Questions for an Airline Pilot

Airline Pilot Questions & Answers
1

I am in college currently but plan on attending flight school after I graduate. I have a project for one of my classes. The assignment is to interview someone who is in the profession I want to pursue in my future. I thought this would be the perfect place to conduct my interview. Below, I will list a few questions. Feel free to answer them honestly. Thank you for your time.

What does a day in the life look like?
What degree requirements are needed for this field of work?
What opportunities are there for advancement?
What advice do you have for me to get experience now?
Tell me about your career path.
Tell me about your collegiate journey.
What do you know now that you wish you would’ve known earlier?

2

Vaida,

Ok here we go:

  1. This will vary considerably depending on the airline, the aircraft and other factors. I’m very fortunate as I’m a 717 Capt at Hawaiian who only flies interisland. My longest flight is approx 35min and the shortest is 20. I typically fly 6 legs (or less per day), start early and I’m usually home for lunch. I suggest you visit the schedule sections and see what the others look like as my situation is very unique.

  2. While all the airlines have dropped their degree requirements, ALL still prefer a 4yr BA/BS degree and those that have one will always get priority in hiring.

  3. ALL the airlines in the US operate a seniority system. This means virtually all advancements are strickly based on your seniority at the airline vs merit. While some find this unfair it does elimate favoritism.

  4. Finish your degree then do your flight training. It’s really that simply. The airlines hire well trained experienced pilots.

  5. Pretty standard. Did my training with ATP, instructed with ATP until I built enough time to get hired by a Regional (received preferential interview with recommendation from ATP), flew for a Regional as an FO, Capt and instructor, got hired at a Major and now fly as a Capt.

  6. I actually went to college many years before my pilot career.

Adam