The first Part 107 commercial drone pilot rules were enacted in August 2016. Eight years later, there are more than 400,000 certified remote pilots and more than 785,000 registered drones. 

Drone technology has already proven itself across a wide range of industries, including law enforcement, industrial inspections, precision agriculture, search and rescue, and more.

Although drone technology has changed a lot since the FAA first started regulating commercial operations, what has stayed the same is the need for skilled and legal drone pilots. 

With regulators making moves to strengthen the domestic market, now is the time to consider a career change or even pick up a side hustle as a drone pilot.

But how much can you make as a drone pilot? The answer to that question is more complex because a drone pilot’s salary can vary widely depending on several factors.

Let’s dig into the details and shed some light on the earning potential of commercial drone pilots.

Factors Affecting Drone Pilot Salary

To answer the question of how much drone pilots make, we need to examine the factors affecting drone pilot salaries. While many variables can affect what drone pilot jobs pay, most can be broken into one of four categories:

• Industry
• Experience level
• Location
• Employment type

How Industry Impacts Drone Pilot Salaries

One of the biggest factors that influence how much a drone pilot can earn is the industry in which they work.

Drones are used in many different sectors, each with its own pay scale. The latest trends in technology also impact each of these industries and what career paths are open to drone pilots.

• Real estate: In real estate, drones are often used to take aerial photos and videos of properties. These visuals can give potential buyers a better understanding of the property’s layout and surroundings. Real estate drone pilots typically earn a moderate salary, but those specializing in high-end properties can earn more. This is where most pilots, especially those using drones as a side hustle, typically work.
• Film and photography: The film and photography industry is another major employer of drone pilots. Drones are used to capture breathtaking shots that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional cameras. Pilots in this industry can command high rates, especially if they have experience working on big-budget productions.
• Agriculture: In agriculture, drones monitor crops, map fields, and spray pesticides. The pay in this sector can vary, but experienced pilots with specialized knowledge in agriculture can earn a good salary.
• Inspection and maintenance: Drones are increasingly used to inspect and maintain infrastructure like bridges, power lines, and pipelines. This type of work often requires pilots to have specialized skills and certifications, which can lead to higher pay.
• Public safety and emergency services: Drones play an important role in public safety and emergency services, such as search and rescue operations, firefighting, and law enforcement. Pilots working in this sector might not earn as much as those in the film industry, but the work can be incredibly rewarding and offer job stability.
• Delivery services: Companies such as Amazon and UPS are exploring using drones for delivery services. While this sector is still in its early stages, it has the potential to offer good salaries as the technology and demand for drone deliveries grow.
• Military and government: The military and government agencies also employ drone pilots, often for surveillance, reconnaissance, and other tactical operations. Pilots in these roles can earn high salaries, especially with military experience or specialized training.

Role of Experience Level in Determining Drone Pilot Earnings

Another key factor in determining a drone pilot’s salary is their experience level.

• Entry level vs. experienced pilots: As in any other job, entry-level drone pilots typically earn less than those with more experience. However, the great thing about the drone industry is that there are plenty of opportunities to gain experience quickly. Many drone pilots start by taking on smaller, lower-paying jobs to build their portfolio. As they gain experience and improve their skills, they can start charging higher rates and taking on more lucrative jobs. Flight hours are a common way the industry tracks experience level. New pilots can expect to command hourly rates of $50 to $100, while experienced pilots can get much higher amounts.
• Certifications and licenses: Certifications and licenses can greatly impact a drone pilot’s salary. In the United States, for example, drone pilots must obtain a Part 107 certification from the FAA to operate commercially. Online courses like those provided by Altitude University and the Pilot Institute are excellent ways to prepare for the Part 107 exam. Pilots with additional certifications, such as those operating drones in specific industries or environments, typically command higher rates.

Location Matters: How Geography Affects Drone Pilot Pay

Where a drone pilot works can also have a significant impact on their salary. Some markets have more opportunities than others. Salaries can vary significantly from one area to another.

• Geographical differences in salary: Salaries for drone pilots can vary depending on the location. For example, drone pilots working in major cities or tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles might earn more than those working in smaller towns or rural areas. This is partly due to the higher demand for drone services in urban areas and the generally higher cost of living.
• Cost of living impact: Considering how this affects a drone pilot’s salary is important. A higher salary in an expensive city might not go as far as a lower salary in a more affordable area. Drone pilots must weigh these factors when deciding where to base their operations.

Employment Type: Full time vs. Freelance Earnings for Drone Pilots

The type of employment a drone pilot chooses can also affect their earnings. There are pros and cons to each path you choose, and deciding one way or another depends on your goals and personal preferences.

• Full time vs. freelance: Some drone pilots work full-time for a company, while others operate as freelancers. Full-time positions often have steady salaries and benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. On the other hand, freelance drone pilots have the potential to earn more by taking on multiple clients and charging higher rates. Still, they also have to manage their business expenses and deal with the uncertainty of fluctuating income.
• Salary vs. hourly rate: Drone pilots can be paid a salary or an hourly rate, depending on the job. Salaried positions typically offer more stability, while hourly rates can vary widely depending on the complexity and duration of the job. Freelancers often charge hourly or per project, and their rates can increase as they gain more experience and build a strong portfolio.

Exploring Salary Ranges for Drone Pilots: What to Expect

Now that we’ve covered the factors influencing a drone pilot’s salary let’s look at some average earnings.

• General salary ranges for different industries: On average, drone pilots in the real estate industry can expect to earn anywhere from $40,000 to $70,000 per year. Those working in the film and photography industry earn between $50,000 and $100,000, depending on their experience and the types of projects they work on. In agriculture, salaries typically range from $40,000 to $80,000. Pilots working in inspection and maintenance can earn between $50,000 and $90,000, while those in public safety and emergency services might earn between $40,000 and $75,000 annually.
• Comparison of salaries in different regions: Salaries can also vary based on location. For example, a drone pilot in California might earn significantly more than a pilot in the Midwest due to the higher demand for drone services and the higher cost of living in the state. In contrast, a drone pilot working in a rural area might earn less, but their cost of living would also be lower. Remember that there are always exceptions to the rule. I often work in very rural areas. Since I am the only pilot willing to take the work, I can often charge several thousand dollars for a single day’s work.
• Potential for high earnings in specialized roles: High earnings are even greater for drone pilots who specialize in a particular industry or have advanced certifications. Pilots who work on big-budget film productions or handle complex inspections for critical infrastructure can earn six-figure salaries. Additionally, those with a strong reputation and network can command premium service rates.

Proven Strategies to Boost Your Earnings as a Drone Pilot

If you’re a drone pilot looking to boost your earnings, here are some strategies to consider. These time-tested recommendations have helped many pilots rise to the top of their respective markets.

• Building a strong portfolio: One of the best ways to increase your value as a drone pilot is to build a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and experience. A portfolio with high-quality images, videos, and case studies can help you stand out to potential clients and employers.
• Networking and marketing: Networking is not just a bonus in the drone industry; it’s a necessity. Connecting with other professionals, attending industry events, and promoting your services online can increase your visibility and attract more clients. Social media platforms, especially LinkedIn and YouTube, can be powerful tools for marketing your services. Remember, it’s not just what you know but who you know that can make a difference in your career.
• Acquiring additional certifications: As mentioned earlier, having additional certifications can help you command higher rates. Consider pursuing certifications relevant to the industry you want to work in, such as thermography for inspections or cinematography for film work. Online learning platforms offer additional training beyond Part 107. Many schools offer classes in real estate photography, thermal inspections, cinematography, and more.
• Staying updated on industry trends: The drone industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and applications emerging all the time. Staying updated on industry trends and continuing to learn new skills can help you stay competitive and increase your earning potential. Numerous conferences and events throughout the year are excellent ways to stay on top of the latest trends.

Maximizing Your Earning Potential as a Drone Pilot

The drone industry is an exciting and rapidly growing field, offering a wide range of opportunities for those interested in becoming drone pilots.

Whether you’re drawn to the creative aspects of aerial photography or the technical challenges of industrial inspections, there’s a niche for everyone. As you’ve learned, factors like industry, experience, location, and employment type play crucial roles in determining how much you can earn as a drone pilot.

Getting the proper training and certifications is essential if you’re ready to take the next step toward a lucrative and fulfilling career. Institutions such as Altitude University and the Pilot Institute offer comprehensive courses that can help you get certified and build the skills necessary to excel in this competitive market.

Investing in your education and staying current with industry trends will enhance your earning potential and position you as a leader in the drone industry. Reach out to these online schools today and start your journey toward becoming a highly skilled and successful drone pilot.

FAQs

What certifications do I need to become a commercial drone pilot?

To become a commercial drone pilot in the United States, you need to obtain a Part 107 certification from the FAA. This involves passing a written exam that covers topics like airspace regulations, weather, and drone operation.

What are the typical costs involved in becoming a drone pilot?

Becoming a drone pilot includes the Part 107 exam fee (around $175), a quality drone (ranging from $500 to several thousand dollars), and additional expenses for training courses, insurance, and software.

What legal considerations must I be aware of as a drone pilot?

As a drone pilot, you must follow FAA regulations, including flying within visual line of sight (VLOS), avoiding restricted airspace, and respecting privacy laws. Understanding local and federal regulations is crucial to operating legally and safely.

The post How Much Do Drone Pilots Make? appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The qualities of discipline and leadership developed during a military career can provide a strong foundation for civilian flying. Preparing for this new environment, however, can take some time and careful planning.

Understanding the key aspects of navigating this shift from military to commercial pilot will be beneficial as you start down this path.

Understanding the Transition From Military to Civilian Pilot

While flying remains fundamentally the same, there are significant differences between military and commercial pilots. The operational demands of each role lead to distinct differences in flight environments and work culture.

Military pilots are trained for high-pressure, mission-specific objectives. Military flight operations tend to have a strong emphasis on teamwork and often include complex maneuvers and scenarios. Commercial aviation, on the other hand, emphasizes passenger comfort, safety, and adhering to standardized procedures. Commercial aviation is more customer-service oriented and requires pilots to adapt to a corporate structure. 

Regulatory differences are another key element between military and commercial pilots.

Commercial airlines follow regulations outlined by the FAA. The agency requires an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) certificate for pilots to operate as captain at commercial airlines. Military pilots are not required to obtain an ATP, so they may need to go through the training and testing process to get this certificate.

While some military hours count toward the hour requirements of the ATP, logging additional civilian time or type ratings may be necessary.

Converting Military Flight Experience

Converting military flight hours to their civilian equivalent is an essential step for military pilots transitioning to commercial aviation.

The FAA often credits military flight hours toward the total hours required for civilian certifications, but these hours must be documented accurately. Flight hours acquired in the military must align with civilian flight experience categories, like instrument, night, or cross-country flying.

Some flight schools specialize in helping military pilots translate their experience and offer guidance on how to maximize the value of their military hours when applying for an ATP certificate.

A smooth transition from military to commercial aviation also requires an understanding of FAA regulations.

Unlike military aviation, which follows its own set of rules, civilian aviation is governed by the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). These regulations outline pilot certification and airline operational requirements, among many other aspects of civil aviation.

Participating in FAA-approved training courses and studying relevant FAA publications will help military pilots build the knowledge needed to meet civilian standards.

When converting military flight experience to civilian, be sure to research which ratings or certificates are required for the desired role. With requirements known in advance, hours can be converted more efficiently to meet the needs of the specific certificate.

To obtain an ATP and become an airline pilot, for example, a pilot must have logged time in a multiengine aircraft. If it’s known in advance that multi time is missing, efforts can be concentrated on that type of flying to check the necessary boxes of the ATP certificate. This might involve extra flight training and passing additional FAA exams, but military pilots can leverage their existing skills to expedite the process.

Building Your Commercial Pilot Career

While the aviation industry is constantly evolving, the overall outlook for hiring remains positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts airline and commercial pilot jobs will grow by 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, 1 percent better than the national average.

With the mandated retirement age of 65 for airline pilots, the aviation job market becomes increasingly predictable, allowing for clearer forecasts of future demand and opportunities.

Aside from the popular airline pilot career path, there are many jobs a military pilot could pursue within commercial aviation.

Flight instructors are in constant demand to train and evaluate pilots of all skill levels. Medical evacuation can be a great fit for a former military pilot who thrives in a high-stakes environment. Government organizations outside of the military also need pilots to fill roles in law enforcement, firefighting, cargo transport, and more.

The civilian aviation job market can be highly competitive, so it’s important to have a polished resume and sharp interview skills.

Use an airline interview prep course or find a mentor who can help you make your best first impression. Any qualified candidate can have the required hours, but not everyone can think on their feet in an interview conversation.

A good interview prep course can sharpen your communication skills and boost your confidence, helping you showcase your qualifications and make a lasting impression.

Financial Considerations

Commercial pilots generally earn higher salaries compared to their military counterparts, especially as they advance in their careers.

Military pay is steady and includes benefits like housing allowances, but it often falls short of the competitive salaries found in the commercial sector. The difference in earnings becomes more pronounced as pilots gain experience and move into senior positions within commercial airlines.

Flight training can come at a high cost, but members of the military have the option to utilize their GI Bill to cover some or all of their training.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website is a great resource for understanding the provisions available under specific parts of the GI Bill. It also lists approved institutions where those benefits can be used.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill includes a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) that can be used to cover living expenses while you are in training. Additional financial assistance options such as the Yellow Ribbon Program can help cover the gap between the GI Bill benefits and the actual cost of tuition.

With all of the options available, there are ways to strategically plan your flight training to make the most of your funding.

Conclusion

Some of the biggest challenges a military pilot will face when making the switch to commercial aviation are converting military flight experience to civilian, funding additional required training, and adjusting to major cultural and regulatory changes.

Find mentors and fellow aviators who can offer support and guidance through these major life changes. Devote time to understanding FAA regulations and plan ahead for additional training requirements. Get to know the GI Bill benefits and how they can be maximized.

With time and dedication, the transition from military to commercial pilot can be incredibly smooth. The depth of knowledge and experience acquired in a military flying career will serve a future airline pilot incredibly well. 

FAQ

Can you go from military pilot to commercial pilot?

Military pilots can become commercial pilots by converting their flight hours and experience to meet FAA requirements. Additional exams and training may be necessary for military pilots to qualify for work as airline pilots.

How many military pilots become commercial pilots?

It’s estimated that one-third of military pilots go on to fly as civilian pilots following their retirement from service.

Do military pilots make good commercial pilots?

Military pilots acquire extensive experience and skills during active duty that set them up for success as commercial pilots. In addition to flying skills, leadership and discipline developed in the military translates well to a commercial flying environment. 

Will the military pay for a commercial pilot license?

Military pilots can use their GI Bill to cover some or all aspects of flight training.

The post How to Transition From a Military Pilot to a Commercial Pilot appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The Atlanta-based airline hopes to return its regional capacity to pre-pandemic levels in summer 2025, driven by improvements in pilot supply, company leadership shared during a third-quarter earnings call on Thursday.

“With hiring and training normalizing, we are growing into our resources and gaining traction on efficiency and initiatives, helping fund continued investments in our people and brand,” said Delta finance chief Dan Janki during the call.

Data from the Future and Active Pilot Advisors (FAPA) shows that Delta has hired 870 pilots so far in 2024, representing an over 50 percent year-over-year change from the same period in 2023. As a whole, the industry follows a similar trend, with major U.S. carriers reporting a roughly 40 percent reduction in hiring numbers overall.

Delta expects industrywide pilot hiring to be more in line with 2019 levels.

“As you know, pilot constraints as the majors were hiring early in the recovery period put a lot of strain on availability of pilot crews for the regional carriers…and we’ve been working very closely with them,” Delta president Glen Hauenstein said.

Hauenstein added that the company expects U.S. airlines to hire approximately 5,000 pilots next year. In 2019, airlines were just 23 new hires short of this figure, according to FAPA’s data.

“So [we are] returning to more normalized pilot hiring across the industry,” Hauenstein said.

This article first appeared on AirlineGeeks.com.

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To keep these facilities running, airports employ skilled engineers to ensure that airport infrastructure is safe. Airport engineers also plan and oversee new projects.

Here is what you need to know about becoming an airport engineer.

What Does an Airport Engineer Do?

The work of an airport engineer can be divided into two broad categories. The first is project development and design, which involves planning for new infrastructure. For example, airport engineers would be heavily involved in the design, planning, and construction of a new terminal or apron.

Infrastructure projects can also include rehabilitation or improvements of existing facilities. For example, an engineer may oversee the replacement of the runway lights on an airfield or an update to the heating and cooling system inside an air traffic control tower.

The second category of work that an airport engineer does is ongoing monitoring and maintenance work. Many parts of the airport—including the runways, taxiways, and buildings—require regular inspections and tests. Engineers are responsible for conducting this work and identifying and managing any required repairs.

Although the work experience of an airport engineer can vary depending on their employer and expertise, day-to-day tasks of an airport engineer can include the following:

• Overseeing and participating in design studies and project plans: This involves tasks like performing technical design work, attending meetings, and directing consultants and contracted firms.
• Managing ongoing construction and maintenance projects: Work at an airport is conducted either by airport employees or contracted companies. Engineers are often responsible for overseeing infrastructure repairs and construction.
• Participating in the procurement process: Engineers assist in preparing requests for proposals and evaluating submissions for maintenance and construction work. This includes providing advice on the scope of work as well as technical requirements and constraints.
• Conducting site visits and inspections: There are countless elements of an airport that require regular testing and checks, ranging from baggage systems to airfield drainage networks. Engineers may be tasked with performing these inspections.

Most airport engineers are employed either directly by an airport authority (or a government body that runs an airport) or by an engineering firm that provides services to airports.

What Skills and Qualifications Do You Need to Become an Airport Engineer?

Airport engineers need to have strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. The role of an airport planner also requires other important workplace competencies such as communication skills, the ability to work both independently and as a team, and organizational skills.

Airport engineers typically have a background in civil engineering, which is the engineering branch dedicated to the design and construction of buildings and public works. Most positions require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering, as well as a professional engineering designation or license in the relevant jurisdiction.

Some job postings will also require prior experience as an engineer. Knowledge of airports or other public infrastructure is also typically considered an asset. Certain positions also require proficiency in design software like AutoCAD.

How Much Do Airport Engineers Make?

Entry-level airport engineering jobs typically have an annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000. Experienced engineers can make hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2023 median pay for a civil engineer in the United States was $95,890. 

The post How to Become an Airport Engineer appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

They respond to aircraft emergencies to ensure passengers stay safe no matter what, and they can respond to medical emergencies across the airport to ensure good health for all.

Different airports handle their firefighting operations differently. Most airports have fire units under the jurisdiction of municipal fire departments, though many have distinct units to handle airport operations.

Either way, airport firefighting is a highly specialized operation that requires special training, equipment, and preparation to carry out safely.

Firefighter hopefuls must meet a certain selection of basic requirements to be eligible.

All airport firefighters must have a high school diploma or GED and pass a fitness test. Of particular importance is cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance to make sure you meet the demanding physical requirements of firefighting.

Firefighting Prerequisites

Many airport fire departments also require applicants to have some firefighting experience and certification already.

Though specific requirements can vary, you may need to have Firefighter II and CPR certification to be considered. Other departments require a certain amount of documented firefighting experience before you can join the airport’s operation.

There are a number of ways to achieve this basic certification.

Some people join volunteer fire departments to gain experience and certifications. In some places, airport units fall under the same department as the wider municipal department. In that case, the only way to get assigned to the airport is to spend time with the broader department. Airports tend to be senior units assigned to the most experienced, longest-tenured members.

There are often a number of prerequisites that firefighters must meet just like any airport, airline, or aviation employee. Firefighters are subject to drug testing and must pass a background check completed by the Transportation Security Administration.

Airport-Specific Training

Once you meet the basic requirements to become an airport firefighter, you need to accomplish specialized training on getting around airports, and handling airplanes and flammable materials like fuel.

One type of training an airport firefighter needs is Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) certification. This training covers aircraft systems, aircraft firefighting techniques, rescue operations, evacuation procedures, and accident management. 

Hazardous materials (hazmat) training is also required. It teaches firefighters to identify and contain hazardous materials and to mitigate its risk. It can also teach decontamination procedures and appropriate response protocols.

There are also highly specialized training programs, covering things such as how to drive fire trucks and how to do so at an airport. Equally as important is operating the equipment on the trucks. In addition, there is officer and leadership training to ensure quality leadership for safe operations.

Firefighter Duties

The day-to-day operations of airport fire departments vary based on the size of the department.

Larger airports with more aircraft operations tend to be more active than smaller airports. Midsize general aviation airports, which often serve significant business jet and flight school traffic, will have dedicated fire units despite their smaller size. The smallest airports will not have departments at all and will rely entirely on municipal services.

Smaller airports may even require their firefighters to perform household duties at the fire station, such as cleaning hoses and equipment as well as general upkeep. Some require basic airport maintenance.

Airport firefighter salaries start at about $36,000 and can top out above $70,000 for more experienced firefighters at bigger airports. They also tend to receive benefits such as insurance, retirement plans, and pensions.

Firefighting can be an incredibly rewarding job. Keeping passengers, crews, and aircraft safe brings incredible meaning and purpose.

Big or small, firefighters carry out heroic tasks and bring great value to airports.

The post How to Become an Airport Firefighter appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

While some use professional connections to secure jobs flying twin, turbine, or charter operations to gain critical experience, others build time quickly as flight instructors or even buying and renting airplanes.

In such a big pool of applicants, many want to know what to do to stand out as a uniquely qualified and capable pilot. One of the best ways to do so is to attain special ratings and endorsements that are not common in the general public.

Glider Pilot Add-Ons

Becoming a glider pilot is one of the best ways to build quality flight time.

Gliding with no engine forces a pilot to learn more about the physics of flight, particularly controlling lift and drag directly to stay airborne for hours. Even just a little glider experience can do wonders to help pilots learn new skills or refine the ones they already possess.

Glider pilots can also attain additional ratings, endorsements, and privileges to further their career progression. They can, for example, receive an endorsement to do aerotows, flying airplanes that pull unpowered gliders into the air. This is a great way to sharpen skills and even make a few bucks in the process.

Glider pilots also need endorsements to add on each new type of glider launching. Those who have only ever been towed, for example, need an additional endorsement to fly self-launching gliders.

Learning the ins and outs of a wider variety of aircraft opens pilots up to a wider variety of situations that broaden their skills and experience, making them more competitive for a wider variety of positions down the road.

High-Altitude Endorsement

The process for attaining a high-altitude endorsement can be tricky, as you need to find someone willing to provide you with a capable aircraft for the training.

However, receiving the high-altitude training is valuable for pilots interested in continuing their careers in jets, turbine aircraft, and other high-performance aircraft down the road.

A high-altitude endorsement is required when flying a pressurized aircraft with a service ceiling or maximum operating altitude, whichever is lower, above 25,000 feet. The endorsement includes training on the dangers of hypoxia and other high-altitude physiological challengers, as well as aerodynamics and operations of systems.

The flight portion of the training includes both standard operations and emergency procedures. Simply having flight training in high-performance, high-altitude aircraft—let alone experience acting as a pilot of one—is invaluable for whatever aviator job may be interested in applying for down the road.

Seaplane Rating

Seaplanes are a great middle ground for pilots interested in expanding their horizons.

While the flight characteristics of a seaplane will be familiar to someone who already has time in land-based airplanes, learning to touch down on water is a unique challenge that can help pilots prove they’ve still got what it takes to face new challenges and succeed in new situations.

Though rare, some flight schools even offer multiengine seaplane add-ons. Pilots looking to build additional multiengine time can use this rating to build experience in a way that stands out from other pilots who often simply rent multiengine land airplanes to finish their time-building requirements.

Ground Instructor Certificate

If you’re looking for a rating to boost your aeronautical knowledge—at a fraction of the cost—then a ground instructor certificate is a great option.

All you need to do is pass the appropriate ground instructor written test—plus the Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI) test if you’re not already a flight instructor—and bring your result to the FAA.

FAA Advanced Ground Instructors (AGIs) are permitted to give ground training to almost any pilot or applicant except for instrument rating applicants. That requires an Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) rating.

Giving ground lessons with real students will help pilots refine their knowledge while getting paid. Many flight instructor applicants obtain their ground instructor certification to help them study for their flight instructor exams by working with real students to put lesson plans to the test.

There are a variety of ways to expand your skills and knowledge as a pilot. Through new ratings, additional experience, and unique flight time, pilots can stand out while refining their abilities.

There is no one best way to face the challenge of becoming a professional pilot but rather a variety of methods based on individual needs and future goals.

The post Best Pilot Ratings to Advance Your Career appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

A total of 1,811 new hires have signed on, 11 more than the target figure of 1,800. The agency said in a statement that the figure was the highest in nearly 10 years and represents “important progress” toward stemming a decades-long decline in ATC staffing numbers.

“I’m thrilled to announce that we hit this major hiring milestone and have so many talented professionals entering our training program,” FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said. “It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone involved and part of our ongoing work to rebuild the controller workforce.”

Requirements for the job include a commitment to work day, evening and night shifts, as well as weekends and holidays “depending on assigned schedules.” As far as geographical facility assignments, staffing needs will determine placement, which could be anywhere in the U.S., following graduation from the training program in Oklahoma City.

In addition, applicants need to be U.S. citizens, able to speak English clearly, be younger than 31 years old, have at least a year’s work experience or work/education combination, and pass a medical examination, security screening, and a pre-employment skills assessment.

“Being recruiter in chief is one of the most important roles I play at the FAA.” Whitaker said. “We will not rest on the success of this hiring push. We are already thinking about how to meet our goals next year and into the future.”

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on AVweb.

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Air cargo specialists play a critical role in this global network by ensuring the proper and safe transportation of goods through the skies.

Here is what you need to know about becoming an air cargo specialist.

What Is an Air Cargo Specialist?

The term air cargo specialist refers to individuals who are responsible for organizing, planning, loading, and unloading cargo from aircraft. The exact job titles and responsibilities can vary depending on the employer.

Common tasks for an air cargo specialist include loading and unloading cargo from aircraft and vehicles, transporting cargo around an airport, and ensuring that the movement of cargo is properly documented. Some roles also involve administrative work such as preparing weight and balance records.

Military Air Cargo Specialists

One way of becoming an air cargo specialist is by joining the military. Many branches of the U.S Armed Forces have cargo specialist positions.

The U.S. Army, for example, has an occupation called cargo specialist. These enlisted service members handle supplies, weapons, mail, and equipment that are being transported by air, land, or sea. Army cargo specialists load and unload cargo, operate heavy equipment, and document the movement of cargo.

A similar role in the U.S. Air Force is the air transportation specialist. This job focuses exclusively on air transportation but also includes working with passenger transportation rather than just cargo. Air transportation specialists not only load and unload cargo but also have other tasks such as planning the types and quantities of cargo to be loaded and performing passenger-related tasks such as checking travel documents.

In the U.S. Navy, logistics specialists are responsible for mail and cargo. The U.S. Marine Corps has logistics/embarkation specialists who help prepare and load cargo for all modes of transportation.

The military also hires civilian cargo specialists to support its operations.

Becoming a cargo specialist in the military involves going through the standard enlistment process. This consists of meeting basic eligibility requirements, completing physical and written testing, and passing a medical examination.

New service members will then need to attend basic training for their respective branch before getting specialized training for their specialty and receiving their first posting.

Civilian Air Cargo Specialists

Airlines also hire cargo specialists for their cargo operations.

At cargo airlines such as FedEx and UPS, one of the primary tasks of their ramp agents is to load and unload their aircraft. These airlines also have administrative personnel who assist with planning and weight and balance.

Many passenger airlines also have a cargo division, which provides services using either dedicated planes or extra space on passenger aircraft. These airlines have employees who handle and organize their cargo operations. Cargo-loading functions are typically performed by ramp workers, who are also responsible for loading passenger bags.

These employees are usually hired internally or through public job postings. Cargo-loading jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting and operating specialized equipment. Administrative jobs involving air cargo may require higher levels of education and proficiency with computers. 

The post How to Become an Air Cargo Specialist appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

A certified Part 135 air carrier, Sierra West is based in the U.S. but offers frequent flights to Canada, Mexico, the Americas, and the Caribbean. Its fleet includes the Learjet 60, Metroliner III, and Piper Pilot 100i.

Sierra West Mission Statement

“To be the most trusted operating partner for aircraft owners, flight departments, and clients needing management support and/or charter services.”

Sierra West Openings on FindaPilot.com

• LR 60 Captain in Oakdale, California
• SA227 Captain in El Paso, Texas

More Sierra West Resources:

• Career site 
• LinkedIn 
• X (Twitter) 
• Instagram 
• YouTube

More Employer Profiles

• Priester Aviation
• Global Medical Response
• Boutique Air
• Castle Aviation
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• Thrive Aviation
• Metro Aviation

More Help from FindaPilot.com

• Latest pilot job openings 
• Pilot directory 
• Sign-up page

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According to WAI, approximately 30,000 girls took part in the 185 events at airports, FBOs, and aviation museums in 33 countries, 43 states, and two U.S. territories.

• READ MORE: Frontier of Flight Museum Event to Celebrate Women in Aerospace

WAI boasts multiple chapters in the U.S., as well in Europe, Africa, and Asia, in addition to year-round virtual resources available for free through the Aviation for Girls (AFG) app.

The event is designed to appeal to girls ages 8-18 and show them what careers are available in aviation and meet women who hold these careers and can act as mentors. In addition to pilots, mechanics, and flight attendants, girls participating in the event have an opportunity to learn about engineering, dispatching, and the numerous technical applications that go along with aviation.

Participants had a chance to meet female role models, listen to career panels, and get up close with different aircraft. The events often also include age-appropriate, hands-on activities, such as scavenger hunts and model making.

“We know Girls in Aviation Day has been instrumental in introducing opportunities in aviation and STEM to thousands of participants all around the world,” said WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. 

The first WAI International Girls in Aviation Day was held in 2015 and featured 32 events. According to WAI, the day is made possible through the support of many, including the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, PPG Foundation, Emanuel Bachmann Foundation, Sporty’s Pilot Shop, and JCL Aviation Services.

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